2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. (326 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 33 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | 500 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 2012 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3050 mm |
