1961 Chrysler Imperial vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chrysler Imperial. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chrysler Imperial would be higher. At 5,802 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1961 Chrysler Imperial. (276 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1961 Chrysler Imperial. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 470 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1961 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Chrysler Imperial | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Imperial | SL |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5802 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 2360 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6170 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3800 mm | 2520 mm |
