2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Porsche 993
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Porsche 993. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Porsche 993 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 (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 322 more horse power than 1996 Porsche 993. (282 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Porsche 993. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 558 kg more than 1996 Porsche 993. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Porsche 993 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, 1996 Porsche 993 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 (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 660 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Porsche 993. (341 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Porsche 993. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Porsche 993 has manual transmission. 1996 Porsche 993 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Porsche 993 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 993 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2280 mm |
