2000 Lancia Kappa vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2000 Lancia Kappa is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2000 Lancia Kappa. (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2000 Lancia Kappa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 235 kg more than 2000 Lancia Kappa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Lancia Kappa, 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, 2000 Lancia Kappa (309 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2000 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Lancia Kappa | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kappa | SL |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1929 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 309 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
