1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Fiat Stilo

To start off, 2009 Fiat Stilo 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 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 122 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Stilo. (68 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Stilo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 610 kg more than 2009 Fiat Stilo. 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, 2009 Fiat Stilo, 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Stilo. (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Stilo.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 2009 Fiat Stilo
Make Mercedes-Benz Fiat
Model SL Stilo
Year Released 1997 2009
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2799 cc 1910 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 190 HP 68 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 255 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 18.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
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 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4470 mm 3550 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 58 L