1989 Daihatsu Applause 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 Daihatsu Applause. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Daihatsu Applause would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 414 more horse power than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1840 kg more than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. 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 Daihatsu Applause, 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 (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 497 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. (134 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Daihatsu Applause. 1989 Daihatsu Applause has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Daihatsu Applause will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Daihatsu Applause | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Applause | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
