1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero
To start off, 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero 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 6,350 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero (1,269 HP @ 6075 RPM) has 1065 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 560 kg more than 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero.
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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero has manual transmission. 2009 SSC Ultimate Aero 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 SSC Ultimate Aero | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | SSC |
| Model | SL | Ultimate Aero |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 6350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 1269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6075 RPM |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 437 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 2.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1090 mm |
