1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Suzuki XL7
To start off, 2009 Suzuki XL7 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki XL7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki XL7 (252 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki XL7 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 120 kg more than 2009 Suzuki XL7.
Because 2009 Suzuki XL7 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 Suzuki XL7 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 Suzuki XL7 (330 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki XL7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Suzuki XL7 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 Suzuki XL7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Suzuki XL7 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | XL7 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2798 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
