2003 Fiat Punto vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Fiat Punto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Fiat Punto would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 424 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Punto. (94 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 973 kg more than 2003 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Punto, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 502 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Punto. (128 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Punto. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Fiat Punto has manual transmission. 2003 Fiat Punto will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Punto | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Punto | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.3 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.8 L/100km | 19.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 80 L |
