1997 Ford F-150 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford F-150. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford F-150 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1997 Ford F-150. (217 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford F-150. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford F-150 weights approximately 191 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1997 Ford F-150 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford F-150. (393 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford F-150. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford F-150 has manual transmission. 1997 Ford F-150 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford F-150 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F-150 | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2105 kg | 1914 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2560 mm |
