1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 10 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (263 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 458 kg more than 2008 Pontiac Torrent.
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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent, 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, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (339 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 | 2008 Pontiac Torrent | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | SL | Torrent |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 339 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1352 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4800 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |