1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer

To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. (111 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 655 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer. (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Mercedes-Benz SL 1996 Mitsubishi Lancer
Make Mercedes-Benz Mitsubishi
Model SL Lancer
Year Released 1989 1996
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2962 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 111 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 267 Nm 137 Nm
Torque RPM 4600 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1690 kg 1035 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4280 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1480 mm