1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 9 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 202 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 176 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R 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 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz R. (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2007 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | R |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 2226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2990 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
