2008 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (167 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 295 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2175 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
