1993 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 370 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz S | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | SL |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
