1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 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 148 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (169 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 615 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz
Model SL C
Year Released 1996 2009
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4973 cc 2148 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 317 HP 169 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 471 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.5 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 88.3 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1840 kg 1225 kg
Vehicle Length 4470 mm 4590 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1450 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1780 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 66 L


 

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