2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,670 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (303 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 386 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Impala | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Impala | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5670 cc | 3724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 303 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 438 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |