2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1986 Peugeot 205

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 205. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 205 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 474 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 205. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 205. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1235 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 205. 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, 1986 Peugeot 205, 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 (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 837 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 205. (161 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 205. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1986 Peugeot 205 has manual transmission. 1986 Peugeot 205 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 1986 Peugeot 205
Make Mercedes-Benz Peugeot
Model SL 205
Year Released 2004 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5980 cc 1905 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 604 HP 130 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 998 Nm 161 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.6:1
Top Speed 245 km/hour 198 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 3.9 seconds 8.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2110 kg 875 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 3710 mm
Vehicle Width 2040 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2430 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 50 L