1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (129 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 394 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. 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, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SL | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 471 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
