2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 189 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.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will offer significantly more control. 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 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Traverse | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2410 mm |
