1996 Lancia Kappa vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (511 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 338 more horse power than 1996 Lancia Kappa. (173 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Lancia Kappa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 440 kg more than 1996 Lancia Kappa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 490 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lancia Kappa. (230 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lancia Kappa. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Lancia Kappa has manual transmission. 1996 Lancia Kappa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lancia Kappa | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Kappa | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2451 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 511 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 720 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |