2001 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 11 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML. (201 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (500 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | ML |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2916 mm |
