2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 860 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2295 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
