2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1981 Suzuki Fronte
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Suzuki Fronte. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Fronte would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. (29 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1325 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Suzuki Fronte, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 419 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. (41 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1981 Suzuki Fronte has manual transmission. 1981 Suzuki Fronte will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1981 Suzuki Fronte | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | Fronte |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 41 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2160 mm |
