2009 Tata Indica vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Tata Indica is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2009 Tata Indica. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Tata Indica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 755 kg more than 2009 Tata Indica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Tata Indica, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Tata Indica. (115 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Tata Indica. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Tata Indica has manual transmission. 2009 Tata Indica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Tata Indica | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Tata | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Indica | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1405 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3680 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 37 L | 80 L |
