1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 840 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 309, 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (113 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | SL | 309 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
