1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 5 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 84 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 619 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 57 L |
