2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 158 kg more than 1989 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 267 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 88.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |