2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage
To start off, 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is newer by 8 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage (430 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 270 kg more than 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage.
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, 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage (489 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Aston Martin V8 Vantage | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Aston Martin |
Model | SL | V8 Vantage |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 430 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7300 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 489 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4382 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1867 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2601 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |