1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 5,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 390 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 40 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 513 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 98 L |
