2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1990 Porsche 911

To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP) has 243 more horse power than 1990 Porsche 911. (250 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Porsche 911.

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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 491 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Porsche 911. (309 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Porsche 911. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 1990 Porsche 911 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 1990 Porsche 911
Make Mercedes-Benz Porsche
Model SL 911
Year Released 2003 1990
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 5513 cc 3600 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V boxer
Horse Power 493 HP 250 HP
Torque 800 Nm 309 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 11.3:1
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 4250 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2280 mm