1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Aston Martin DB9
To start off, 2009 Aston Martin DB9 is newer by 12 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 5,935 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Aston Martin DB9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Aston Martin DB9 (470 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Aston Martin DB9 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Aston Martin DB9 weights approximately 66 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2009 Aston Martin DB9 (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Aston Martin DB9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Aston Martin DB9 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Aston Martin DB9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Aston Martin DB9 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Aston Martin |
Model | SL | DB9 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4971 cc | 5935 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 315 HP | 470 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 468 Nm | 600 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.9:1 |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 306 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 78 L |