2001 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 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 425 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5438 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2300 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 62 L |
