2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (311 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLR McLaren | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 617 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 780 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.1 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 80 L |
