2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Triumph TR7
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 Triumph TR7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Triumph TR7 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 498 more horse power than 1978 Triumph TR7. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Triumph TR7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 905 kg more than 1978 Triumph TR7. 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 839 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Triumph TR7. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Triumph TR7. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Triumph TR7 has manual transmission. 1978 Triumph TR7 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 | 1978 Triumph TR7 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Triumph |
Model | SL | TR7 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 604 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 1001 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1950 kg | 1045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2170 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |