1996 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Suburban 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 271 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Suburban. (247 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 730 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Suburban. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Suburban 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Suburban. (455 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Suburban. 1996 Chevrolet Suburban has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Suburban | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Suburban | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5733 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 9 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2100 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5580 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3350 mm | 2570 mm |
