2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 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 94 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 30 kg more than 2002 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 SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
