1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 305 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 420 | SL |
Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4196 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 218 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 329 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |