2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (154 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1140 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (230 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 267 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |