1999 Honda Civic vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Honda Civic would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1999 Honda Civic. (167 HP @ 7600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda Civic.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Honda Civic, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Civic. (166 Nm @ 6300 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Civic. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1999 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Honda Civic | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Civic | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6300 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2560 mm |
