2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 422 more horse power than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. (183 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 935 kg more than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Chevrolet Astro 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 662 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Chevrolet Astro. (338 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Chevrolet Astro.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Astro |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 183 HP |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2830 mm |
