2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 145 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (700 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 2066 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 19.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
