2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 TVR Chimaera. (282 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 TVR Chimaera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 785 kg more than 1999 TVR Chimaera. 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 SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 TVR Chimaera. (306 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 TVR Chimaera. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 TVR Chimaera has manual transmission. 1999 TVR Chimaera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | TVR |
| Model | SL | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 57 L |
