2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Proton Arena
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Proton Arena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Proton Arena would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2003 Proton Arena. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton Arena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 760 kg more than 2003 Proton Arena. 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, 2003 Proton Arena, 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton Arena. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton Arena. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Proton Arena has manual transmission. 2003 Proton Arena 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 | 2003 Proton Arena | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | SL | Arena |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
