2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1983 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (511 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 449 more horse power than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1110 kg more than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. 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 (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 621 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Skoda Rapid R. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1983 Skoda Rapid R has manual transmission. 1983 Skoda Rapid R will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1983 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | SL | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 511 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 47 L |
