2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1995 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Pontiac Firebird 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 (510 HP) has 350 more horse power than 1995 Pontiac Firebird. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1995 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 545 kg more than 1995 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1995 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 1995 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 | 1995 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | SL | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3353 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 160 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 59 L |
