2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Tesla Roadster
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Tesla Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Tesla Roadster would be higher. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 2008 Tesla Roadster. (288 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Tesla Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1595 kg more than 2008 Tesla Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Tesla Roadster. (370 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Tesla Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Tesla Roadster | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Tesla |
| Model | SL | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Type | V | electric |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Electric |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Single Speed |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3947 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1128 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2352 mm |
