2011 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (156 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (250 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz B has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | B |
Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | 7-speed shiftable automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4582 mm | 4359 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1298 mm | 1557 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2699 mm |