1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,839 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 175 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz S (316 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | SL |
Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3839 cc | 2797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 316 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |