1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 7,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (613 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 327 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (286 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 474 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (999 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 444 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (555 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Express. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Express | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Van | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 7439 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 613 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 555 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2424 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2585 mm |
