1994 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 18 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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 147 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Impala.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2012 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Impala |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
