1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan

To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan 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 144 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan. (232 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 499 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.

Because 2005 Volkswagen Multivan 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 Volkswagen Multivan 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 @ 3750 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan. (310 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Multivan. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Multivan has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 2005 Volkswagen Multivan
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model SL Multivan
Year Released 1996 2005
Body Type Convertible Van
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5987 cc 3189 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 376 HP 232 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 580 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1800 kg 2299 kg
Vehicle Length 4470 mm 4900 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1950 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 3010 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 80 L