2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 416 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 620 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 671 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1974 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2760 mm |
