1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Renault Laguna
To start off, 2005 Renault Laguna 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Laguna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 204 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 305 kg more than 2005 Renault Laguna.
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 Renault Laguna, 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, both vehicles can yield 270 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2005 Renault Laguna has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Renault Laguna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Renault Laguna | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Laguna |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2798 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
