1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. (231 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 140 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 490 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. (310 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3198 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 80 L |
