1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 429 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer significantly more control. 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 (700 Nm) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SL |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1959 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 91 L |
