2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Toyota Prius
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 Toyota Prius. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Prius 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Prius. (76 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 594 kg more than 2003 Toyota Prius. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Prius, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (470 Nm) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Prius |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
