2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 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 404 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 769 kg more than 1997 Peugeot 406. 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, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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 (800 Nm) has 667 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (133 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | SL | 406 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
