2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 9 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 470 more horse power than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (134 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 834 kg more than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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 (998 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 829 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 998 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2110 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.4 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 23.4 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 46 L |
