1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 23 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 115 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (113 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 370 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic. 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (148 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 2012 Honda Civic 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. 2012 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Honda Civic | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
Model | SL | Civic |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 267 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Natural Gas (CNG) |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1320 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 30 L |