1987 Lada Samara vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lada Samara would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 441 more horse power than 1987 Lada Samara. (52 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1055 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Lada Samara, 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1987 Lada Samara has manual transmission. 1987 Lada Samara 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:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Samara | SL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1100 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 140 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 17 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 80 L |
