2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 155 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
