2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1961 Porsche 356
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 375 more horse power than 1961 Porsche 356. (135 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1961 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 445 kg more than 1961 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1961 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1961 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 | 1961 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 356 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
