1984 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 409 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 101 kg more than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 426 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS has automatic transmission and 1984 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | SLS |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2680 mm |
