2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 542 more horse power than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. (62 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 885 kg more than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1957 Sunbeam Rapier has manual transmission. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1957 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Sunbeam |
Model | SL | Rapier |
Year Released | 2009 | 1957 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1388 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 604 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1950 kg | 1065 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1550 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |