1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Tata Nano

To start off, 2008 Tata Nano 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 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 169 more horse power than 2008 Tata Nano. (35 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Tata Nano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1210 kg more than 2008 Tata Nano. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Tata Nano. (48 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Tata Nano. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Tata Nano has manual transmission. 2008 Tata Nano will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 2008 Tata Nano
Make Mercedes-Benz Tata
Model SL Nano
Year Released 1998 2008
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 2799 cc 624 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 204 HP 35 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 48 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 73.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 73.5 mm 73.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.1:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 228 km/hour 105 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1810 kg 600 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 3099 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1495 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1652 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2230 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 37 L