1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Tata Indigo

To start off, 2009 Tata Indigo 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 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 2009 Tata Indigo. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Tata Indigo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 629 kg more than 2009 Tata Indigo. 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 Tata Indigo, 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 (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Tata Indigo. (115 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Tata Indigo.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 2009 Tata Indigo
Make Mercedes-Benz Tata
Model SL Indigo
Year Released 1997 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4971 cc 1405 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 315 HP 85 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 468 Nm 115 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.5 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 249 km/hour 160 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1769 kg 1140 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1550 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2460 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 42 L