1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP) has 483 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 288 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 574 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 230 | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 617 HP |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 92 mm |
| 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 | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 14.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 98 L |
