1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Porsche 911
To start off, 2008 Porsche 911 is newer by 18 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Porsche 911 (321 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 285 kg more than 2008 Porsche 911.
Because 2008 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Porsche 911 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, 2008 Porsche 911 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 911 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
