1986 Honda Accord vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Honda Accord would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1986 Honda Accord. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 654 kg more than 1986 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Honda Accord. (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Honda Accord | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Accord | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1953 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
