2008 Dodge Magnum vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Dodge Magnum is newer by 19 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Magnum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Magnum (340 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Magnum should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Magnum weights approximately 1 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.
Because 2008 Dodge Magnum is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Magnum 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, 2008 Dodge Magnum (529 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Magnum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2008 Dodge Magnum 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. 2008 Dodge Magnum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Magnum | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Magnum | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
