1993 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Porsche 996
To start off, 2003 Porsche 996 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,594 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 355 kg more than 2003 Porsche 996.
Because 2003 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Porsche 996 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, 2003 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 996 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 3594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 82.8 mm |
| 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 | 1760 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2360 mm |
