1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP) has 168 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 400 kg more than 1985 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 230 | SL |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
