2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (189 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
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 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
