1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe
To start off, 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe 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 6,749 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe (448 HP @ 5350 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe weights approximately 851 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 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe (531 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe 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 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | SL | Phantom Drophead Coupe |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 6749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 448 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5350 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 239 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 | 2620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
