2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1991 Porsche 964
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Porsche 964. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Porsche 964 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1991 Porsche 964. (261 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Porsche 964. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 750 kg more than 1991 Porsche 964. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Porsche 964 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Porsche 964 will offer significantly more control. 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 (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 382 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Porsche 964. (318 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Porsche 964. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Porsche 964 has manual transmission. 1991 Porsche 964 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 | 1991 Porsche 964 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 964 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 73 L |
