1997 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chrysler Sebring. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chrysler Sebring would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 500 kg more than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chrysler Sebring, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. (176 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chrysler Sebring. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Chrysler Sebring has manual transmission. 1997 Chrysler Sebring 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:
| 1997 Chrysler Sebring | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sebring | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
