1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1987 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1987 Toyota Corolla. (66 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 720 kg more than 1987 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Toyota Corolla, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Toyota Corolla. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1987 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2440 mm |
