2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. (123 HP @ 4350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 135 kg more than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. (250 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 165 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 15.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
