1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 414 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 42 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (781 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 511 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2798 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 781 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 334 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 98 L |
