1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 11 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 105 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz G. (212 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 415 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz G 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 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz G. (300 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2007 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | G |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 471 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 89.9 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 2255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 96 L |
