2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1984 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 440 more horse power than 1984 Toyota Starlet. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1984 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1080 kg more than 1984 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Toyota Starlet, 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 625 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Toyota Starlet. (75 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Toyota Starlet. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1984 Toyota Starlet has manual transmission. 1984 Toyota Starlet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1984 Toyota Starlet | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
Model | SL | Starlet |
Year Released | 2002 | 1984 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5441 cc | 999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 494 HP | 54 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 75 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 70.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 64 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 795 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2310 mm |