1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 129 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | SL |
Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 261 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 405 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |