1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle. (129 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 514 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 15.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 2344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
