1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Vauxhall Frontera
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Frontera 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 3,165 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall Frontera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Frontera. (202 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Frontera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Frontera weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 Vauxhall Frontera 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 Vauxhall Frontera 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, 2003 Vauxhall Frontera (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Frontera 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 2003 Vauxhall Frontera has manual transmission. 2003 Vauxhall Frontera 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 Vauxhall Frontera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Vauxhall |
| Model | SL | Frontera |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3165 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
