1998 Honda Accord vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda Accord would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1998 Honda Accord. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 515 kg more than 1998 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Honda Accord, 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda Accord. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda Accord. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1998 Honda Accord will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda Accord | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Accord | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1300 mm |
