They don’t make them like they used to anymore. We all the time hear that from old-school automotive lovers preferring uncooked energy and fewer electronics. And we will’t actually contradict them on that. True, they don’t make them like they used to anymore. However do they make them quicker right this moment? A Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG from 2004 and the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 55 are right here to set issues straight.
Mat Watson from Carwow is sitting in a Mercedes-AMG SL 55. Not the brand new one, as you’d count on. However a 2004 model which is much from inventory. It’s acquired a 5.5-liter supercharged V8 which delivered 500 PS (493 HP) and 700 Nm of torque (516 lb-ft) to the rear wheels by means of a five-speed automated gearbox when the automotive drove by means of the manufacturing unit gate. However that was then. Now it boasts 625 HP. However all that energy has to maneuver an nearly 2-ton automotive. 1,885 kilograms (4,155 kilos), to be exact.
All these began from 90,000 kilos (the equal of $109,800) in the UK when new.
By the facet window of the virtually 20-year outdated AMG, we get a glimpse of the brand new one. And the brand new one has been the sufferer of downsizing. It’s acquired a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 with 476 PS (469 HP) and 700 Nm of torque (516 lb-ft) that has to maneuver a automotive that’s even heavier than the outdated man standing beside it: 1,950 kilograms (4,299 kilos). All for a beginning worth of 147,475 kilos (nearly $180,000).
What are the aces up the sleeve of the brand new SL 55 although? It’s acquired all-wheel drive and Launch Management, plus a nine-speed automated gearbox.
On the dragstrip, with the Traction Management on, the brand new SL 55 merely flies off and the outdated one doesn’t stand an opportunity.
The second is the same story. Third is healthier, however nonetheless removed from profitable for the 2004 convertible. The brand new one coated the quarter mile in 11.5 seconds. The older one wanted 12.3 seconds to cowl the identical distance.
In a rolling race from 50 mph in automated mode, it’s nonetheless the brand new child on the town that has his means. However what occurs in guide mode? That’s so that you can discover out within the video under.
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