1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 11 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 127 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (188 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 426 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | R |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4971 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 315 HP | 188 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 468 Nm | 440 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.7:1 |
Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 2195 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1670 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2990 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |