2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 262 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. (232 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 311 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 369 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. (331 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | ML |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 3720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 2186 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 86 L |
