1980 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Chevrolet Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Chevrolet Suburban would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1980 Chevrolet Suburban. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 325 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1980 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Chevrolet Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Chevrolet Suburban. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Chevrolet Suburban.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Chevrolet Suburban | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Suburban | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2560 mm |
