1958 Jeep CJ vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Jeep CJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Jeep CJ would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1958 Jeep CJ. (135 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1958 Jeep CJ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 640 kg more than 1958 Jeep CJ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Jeep CJ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 Jeep CJ 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Jeep CJ. (326 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Jeep CJ. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1958 Jeep CJ has manual transmission. 1958 Jeep CJ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Jeep CJ | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Jeep | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CJ | SL |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 326 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3520 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2520 mm |
