2008 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 302 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 410 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3995 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2315 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 80 L |
