1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 201 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1891 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |
