2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 12 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 60 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 465 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2606 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2155 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
