2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
