2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 444 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 480 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 760 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 2120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
