1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP) has 376 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 590 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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 625 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 230 | SL |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 5512 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 510 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.3 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.9 L/100km | 21.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
