2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1991 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 435 kg more than 1991 Pontiac Firebird.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Pontiac Firebird. (244 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Pontiac Firebird. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1991 Pontiac Firebird 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 | 1991 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SL | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3128 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 59 L |
