2009 Hummer H3 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Hummer H3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2009 Hummer H3. (239 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Hummer H3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hummer H3 weights approximately 1010 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 Hummer H3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Hummer H3 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hummer H3. (327 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hummer H3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hummer H3 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Hummer | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | H3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3653 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 102 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2850 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2170 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 80 L |
