1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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 74 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500. (302 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 119 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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 (580 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500. (460 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | E500 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1919 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
