1980 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet El Camino would be higher. At 4,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Chevrolet El Camino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP) has 93 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 135 kg more than 1980 Chevrolet El Camino. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1980 Chevrolet El Camino (271 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm). This means 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Chevrolet El Camino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet El Camino | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | El Camino | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4400 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2520 mm |
