1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 70 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 6.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |
