1989 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2011 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | T5 |
Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2459 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 267 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1980 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1910 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |