2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 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 529 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1112 kg more than 1959 Porsche 356. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 882 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1959 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1959 Porsche 356 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 | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
Model | SL | 356 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1582 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | boxer |
Horse Power | 604 HP | 75 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 1001 Nm | 119 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 838 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |