1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2002 Skoda Octavia is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 2002 Skoda Octavia. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 665 kg more than 2002 Skoda Octavia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Skoda Octavia, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Skoda Octavia. (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Skoda Octavia. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Skoda Octavia has manual transmission. 2002 Skoda Octavia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | SL | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5956 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 5.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
