1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2005 Toyota Highlander 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Highlander. (160 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 109 kg more than 2005 Toyota Highlander. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander 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 (270 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Highlander. (224 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2358 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1701 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
