2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 770 kg more than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 661 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 320 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
