2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1961 Triumph TR4
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 Triumph TR4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Triumph TR4 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 410 more horse power than 1961 Triumph TR4. (100 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1961 Triumph TR4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 259 kg more than 1961 Triumph TR4. 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 658 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Triumph TR4. (172 Nm @ 3350 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Triumph TR4. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1961 Triumph TR4 has manual transmission. 1961 Triumph TR4 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 Triumph TR4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
| Model | SL | TR4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2136 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 53 L |
