1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 101 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 95 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5987 cc | 4266 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 376 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 401 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1895 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3090 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |