2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Porsche 996
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2004 Porsche 996. (317 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Porsche 996. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 433 kg more than 2004 Porsche 996. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Porsche 996 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, 2004 Porsche 996 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) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Porsche 996. (370 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Porsche 996.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 996 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
