2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 9 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (315 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 406 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 GMC Sierra. (454 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 GMC Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | GMC |
| Model | SL | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 2311 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5847 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2032 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3645 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 98 L |
