1988 Lada Samara vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lada Samara would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (523 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 453 more horse power than 1988 Lada Samara. (70 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Lada Samara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 925 kg more than 1988 Lada Samara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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. Let's talk about torque, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 683 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lada Samara. (117 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lada Samara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lada Samara | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lada | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Samara | SL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 523 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2585 mm |
