1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1982 Toyota Century
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Toyota Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Toyota Century would be higher. At 3,376 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Toyota Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1982 Toyota Century. (167 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1982 Toyota Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 5 kg more than 1982 Toyota Century. 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, both vehicles can yield 270 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1982 Toyota Century | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Century |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2870 mm |
