2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (210 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 86 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | E |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1841 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
