2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 149 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (700 Nm) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. (350 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1959 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 88 L |
