2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. Both 2003 Mercedes-Benz S and 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL are equipped with a 5,513 cc engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 493 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 20 kg more than 2005 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, both vehicles can yield 800 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2570 mm |
