1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 205 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 3818 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 306 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1595 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2950 mm |