2002 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 13 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 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2002 Chevrolet Impala. (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 155 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Impala. 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, 2002 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2002 Chevrolet Impala (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2002 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Impala | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Impala | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 80 L |
