1998 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 695 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 531 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Prizm | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Prizm | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4612 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2585 mm |
