1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 555 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
