1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Porsche Cayenne
To start off, 2003 Porsche Cayenne 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche Cayenne (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Porsche Cayenne should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Porsche Cayenne weights approximately 432 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Porsche Cayenne 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, 2003 Porsche Cayenne 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Porsche Cayenne. (420 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Porsche Cayenne. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Porsche Cayenne has manual transmission. 2003 Porsche Cayenne 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 | 2003 Porsche Cayenne | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | Cayenne |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4511 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 2322 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.7 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
