2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 451 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 40 kg more than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 778 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1982 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1982 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1982 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5982 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2950 mm |
