2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 446 more horse power than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. (158 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 685 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 SL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 797 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. (203 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix has manual transmission. 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | SL | Grand Prix |
Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 604 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 1000 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2120 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2740 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |