1983 Honda Accord vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Honda Accord would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 287 more horse power than 1983 Honda Accord. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 840 kg more than 1983 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Honda Accord, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 452 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Honda Accord. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Honda Accord | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Accord | SL |
Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 376 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 128 Nm | 580 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |