1998 Buick Regal vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick Regal would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 Buick Regal. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 261 kg more than 1998 Buick Regal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick Regal, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Buick Regal. (312 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Buick Regal. 1998 Buick Regal has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Regal | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Regal | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
