2009 BMW 550 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 550 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 550 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2778 cc |
Horse Power | 362 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 490 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |