1989 Chrysler TC vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler TC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler TC would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 428 more horse power than 1989 Chrysler TC. (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Chrysler TC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 476 kg more than 1989 Chrysler TC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Chrysler TC, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 730 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Chrysler TC. (271 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Chrysler TC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler TC | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | TC | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1474 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2570 mm |
