1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Honda Accord
To start off, 2005 Honda Accord is newer by 7 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 86 more horse power than 2005 Honda Accord. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 185 kg more than 2005 Honda Accord. 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, 2005 Honda Accord, 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, 2005 Honda Accord (347 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | SL | Accord |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
