2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 5,439 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 431 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 899 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 684 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2490 mm |
