1986 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz G 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 224 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 60 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz G 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 338 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz G. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1986 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1986 Mercedes-Benz G 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:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz G | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
