2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 @ 6100 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. (288 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 259 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML. (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | ML |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 2214 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
