2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 282 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 54 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 515 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | S |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 510 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 830 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1896 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5120 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |