1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2009 Mini Cooper 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 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 89 more horse power than 2009 Mini Cooper. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 685 kg more than 2009 Mini Cooper. 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, 2009 Mini Cooper, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mini Cooper. (150 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mini Cooper. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2009 Mini Cooper 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 | 2009 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
| Model | SL | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
