2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 417 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Vitara. (77 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 795 kg more than 2003 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 573 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Suzuki Vitara. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Suzuki Vitara has manual transmission. 2003 Suzuki Vitara 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 | 2003 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | Vitara |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2490 mm |
