2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (641 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (493 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 2004 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (821 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLR McLaren | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 821 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 335 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
