2009 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (375 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 5956 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 375 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
