1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 SsangYong Rodius
To start off, 2009 SsangYong Rodius 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 SsangYong Rodius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 SsangYong Rodius (217 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 SsangYong Rodius should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 SsangYong Rodius weights approximately 224 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 2009 SsangYong Rodius is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 SsangYong Rodius will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 SsangYong Rodius (312 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 SsangYong Rodius will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 SsangYong Rodius 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. 2009 SsangYong Rodius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 SsangYong Rodius | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | SsangYong |
| Model | SL | Rodius |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2798 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 2034 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1920 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
