2011 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 81 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | SL |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1841 kg | 1760 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
