1988 Honda Civic vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Honda Civic would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1988 Honda Civic. (89 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Honda Civic.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Honda Civic, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Honda Civic | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Civic | SL |
Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1396 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |