2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 235 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | RX-8 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |