1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Bugatti Veyron
To start off, 2011 Bugatti Veyron is newer by 22 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 7,993 cc (16 cylinders), 2011 Bugatti Veyron is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Bugatti Veyron (1,184 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 956 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Bugatti Veyron should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Bugatti Veyron weights approximately 197 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.
Because 2011 Bugatti Veyron is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Bugatti Veyron will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Bugatti Veyron (1,500 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 1233 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Bugatti Veyron will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2011 Bugatti Veyron 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. 2011 Bugatti Veyron will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Bugatti Veyron | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Bugatti |
| Model | SL | Veyron |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 7993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 1184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 1500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
