1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano (201 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 Mercedes-Benz Viano (325 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | Viano |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 75 L |
