1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 348 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 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 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Routan |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 283 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6350 RPM |
Torque | 267 Nm | 352 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2038 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5144 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1953 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1750 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3078 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 78 L |