1991 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Porsche 911
To start off, 2005 Porsche 911 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 911 (316 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 345 kg more than 2005 Porsche 911.
Because 2005 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Porsche 911 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 911 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 316 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1345 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 |
