1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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 136 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 880 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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, 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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 | 1988 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2490 mm |
