2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
