1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2011 Fiat Panda is newer by 14 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 256 more horse power than 2011 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 725 kg more than 2011 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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 366 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Fiat |
| Model | SL | Panda |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1044 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 30 L |
