1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 955 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4965 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 631 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |