1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Mercury Monterey
To start off, 2004 Mercury Monterey is newer by 7 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 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercury Monterey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercury Monterey (201 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercury Monterey should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercury Monterey weights approximately 209 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercury Monterey, 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, 2004 Mercury Monterey (357 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2004 Mercury Monterey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Mercury Monterey | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercury |
| Model | SL | Monterey |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 357 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1969 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 98 L |
