2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 10 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 353 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 773 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic. 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 627 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2012 Honda Civic 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 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
Model | SL | Civic |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 173 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1177 kg |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |