1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2002 Toyota MR2 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 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 7 more horse power than 2002 Toyota MR2. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 200 kg more than 2002 Toyota MR2. 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 (270 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota MR2. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 2002 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 72 L |
