1995 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 505 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
