1989 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Honda Civic would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 420 more horse power than 1989 Honda Civic. (90 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Civic.
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 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 716 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Civic. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1989 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Honda Civic | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Civic | SL |
Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1396 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |