2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Honda Civic
To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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) has 355 more horse power than 2011 Honda Civic. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 601 kg more than 2011 Honda Civic. 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, 2011 Honda Civic, 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 (700 Nm) has 526 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Civic. (174 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | SL | Civic |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
