1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 310 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
