1994 Lancia Kappa vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 394 more horse power than 1994 Lancia Kappa. (124 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1994 Lancia Kappa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1345 kg more than 1994 Lancia Kappa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Lancia Kappa, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lancia Kappa. (250 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lancia Kappa.

Compare all specifications:

1994 Lancia Kappa 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Lancia Mercedes-Benz
Model Kappa SL
Year Released 1994 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2387 cc 6208 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 124 HP 518 HP
Engine RPM 4100 RPM 6800 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 631 Nm
Torque RPM 2250 RPM 5200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 21.0:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1485 kg 2830 kg
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 80 L