1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 MG ZR
To start off, 2006 MG ZR is newer by 9 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2006 MG ZR. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 MG ZR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 665 kg more than 2006 MG ZR. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 MG ZR, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 MG ZR. (123 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 MG ZR.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 MG ZR | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | MG |
| Model | SL | ZR |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
