1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Porsche 911
To start off, 2001 Porsche 911 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2001 Porsche 911. (276 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Porsche 911. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 229 kg more than 2001 Porsche 911. 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, 2001 Porsche 911 (759 Nm) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (468 Nm). This means 2001 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 911 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 3594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 759 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 305 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2360 mm |
