2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1991 Toyota Starlet
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 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 457 more horse power than 1991 Toyota Starlet. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1315 kg more than 1991 Toyota Starlet. 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, 1991 Toyota Starlet, 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 (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 753 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Toyota Starlet. (77 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Toyota Starlet. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Toyota Starlet has manual transmission. 1991 Toyota Starlet 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 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Starlet |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 830 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2045 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2310 mm |
