1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1987 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1987 Toyota Corolla. (140 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Toyota Corolla.
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, 1987 Toyota Corolla, 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 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Toyota Corolla. (206 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Toyota Corolla. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1987 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 1987 Toyota Corolla will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1987 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5956 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
