2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 2650 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (276 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2650 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.4 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |
