1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Volkswagen Touran
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Touran is newer by 15 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 238 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Touran. (138 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Touran. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 284 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Touran. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Touran, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Touran. (220 Nm @ 1550 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Touran. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Touran has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Touran 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Touran | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Touran |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1516 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
