1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 6 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 107 more horse power than 2004 Renault Megane. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 600 kg more than 2004 Renault Megane. 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, 2004 Renault Megane, 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 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Megane. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2004 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2004 Renault Megane 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 | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Megane |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
