2009 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 810 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 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 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
