1990 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 20 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 401 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2091 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
