1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 100 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1981 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | G |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
