1992 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL (231 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (219 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 90 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (268 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | 420 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 268 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
