2007 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (616 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 388 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 260 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (500 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | SL |
Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 616 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 500 Nm | 267 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |