1989 Maserati 430 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Maserati 430. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Maserati 430 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1989 Maserati 430. (247 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Maserati 430. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 850 kg more than 1989 Maserati 430. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Maserati 430. (375 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Maserati 430. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Maserati 430 has manual transmission. 1989 Maserati 430 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Maserati 430 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 430 | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Size | 2789 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 375 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2570 mm |
