1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (210 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 810 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5956 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.2 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
