1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 13 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 143 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 545 kg more than 2010 Volkswagen T5. 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, 2010 Volkswagen T5, 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volkswagen T5. (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volkswagen T5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | T5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
