2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom
To start off, 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 6,700 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom (453 HP @ 5350 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom weights approximately 785 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom (719 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Rolls-Royce Phantom | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | SL | Phantom |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 6700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 453 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5350 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 2690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 6091 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1638 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
