1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Touareg 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Touareg. (217 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Touareg. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 399 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Touareg 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, 2004 Volkswagen Touareg 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 (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Touareg. (310 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Touareg. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Touareg has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Touareg 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 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 3187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 9.9 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 | 1830 kg | 2229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 100 L |
