2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Starlet 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 (605 HP) has 550 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (55 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 2055 kg more than 1978 Toyota Starlet. 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 (1,000 Nm) has 916 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Starlet. (84 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 55 HP |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
