1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 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 66 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (310 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 96 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (730 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 730 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 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 | 1896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
