1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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 208 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (181 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 780 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
