2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 109 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
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 (470 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (370 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | CLS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
