1997 Ford F-250 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford F-250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford F-250 would be higher. At 6,800 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford F-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1997 Ford F-250. (306 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford F-250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford F-250 weights approximately 425 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1997 Ford F-250 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-250 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford F-250. (575 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford F-250.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford F-250 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F-250 | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6800 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 575 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2380 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5760 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2570 mm |
