2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 620 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (470 Nm) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (173 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | SL | Civic |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 1224 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
