1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Mercury Villager
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercury Villager. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercury Villager would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1996 Mercury Villager. (149 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercury Villager. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 20 kg more than 1996 Mercury Villager. 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, 1996 Mercury Villager, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercury |
| Model | SL | Villager |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
