1994 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,950 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 (227 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 200 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30.
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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 (540 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 has automatic transmission and 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C30 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
