2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1983 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 433 more horse power than 1983 Opel Rekord. (85 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1595 kg more than 1983 Opel Rekord. 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 (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 438 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Rekord. (193 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1983 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
