2003 Chrysler LHS vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Chrysler LHS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler LHS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler LHS (246 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler LHS should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 61 kg more than 2003 Chrysler LHS.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler LHS, 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, 2003 Chrysler LHS (333 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler LHS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2003 Chrysler LHS has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler LHS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler LHS | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LHS | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1629 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 80 L |
