2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Porsche 911
To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 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 5,439 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche 911 (530 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 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 349 kg more than 2012 Porsche 911.
Because 2012 Porsche 911 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Porsche 911. (699 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Porsche 911.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 911 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 530 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |
