2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 196 kg more than 2012 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
