1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 360 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. (186 Nm). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz C. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
