1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. (300 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 18 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer (540 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (461 Nm). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 | 2002 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | SL | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1908 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 74 L |
