1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Suzuki Swift
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Swift is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Swift. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Swift. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1029 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Swift. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Swift, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Swift. (76 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Swift.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Suzuki Swift | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | Swift |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2270 mm |
