1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 87 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 74 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (299 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 66 L |
