1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 155 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7291 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 766 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
