1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1983 Peugeot 305
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Peugeot 305 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 311 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 305. (65 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 815 kg more than 1983 Peugeot 305. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Peugeot 305, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 458 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Peugeot 305. (122 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1983 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | SL | 305 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 65 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
