2008 GMC Savana vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 GMC Savana 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 4,802 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Savana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Savana (279 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Savana should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Savana weights approximately 887 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, 2008 GMC Savana (399 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Savana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2008 GMC Savana 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 GMC Savana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Savana | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | GMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Savana | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4802 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2577 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2090 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3940 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 80 L |
