2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1959 Rolls-Royce Phantom
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 Rolls-Royce Phantom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Rolls-Royce Phantom would be higher. At 6,230 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Rolls-Royce Phantom is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 239 kg more than 1959 Rolls-Royce Phantom.
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. 1959 Rolls-Royce Phantom has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1959 Rolls-Royce Phantom will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1959 Rolls-Royce Phantom | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | SL | Phantom |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 6230 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 0 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 104.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 2591 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 6050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 104 L |
