1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Toyota Sienna
To start off, 2008 Toyota Sienna 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 3,455 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Sienna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Sienna (266 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Sienna should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Sienna weights approximately 175 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Toyota Sienna, 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 Toyota Sienna (332 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Sienna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2008 Toyota Sienna has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota Sienna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Toyota Sienna | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Sienna |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 3455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
