2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 341 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5437 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 621 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 2296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
