2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 365 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (340 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2146 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 302 HP |
Torque | 340 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |