2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500
To start off, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is newer by 7 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, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (550 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 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 188 kg more than 2012 Ford Shelby GT500.
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 (700 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Shelby GT500. (691 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Shelby GT500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SL | Shelby GT500 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 550 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 691 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 1733 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
