1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 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 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 75 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 471 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1915 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |