2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (511 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix. (208 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 351 kg more than 1990 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, 1990 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 (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix. (291 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SL | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3352 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 511 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
