1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser

To start off, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 12 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 63 more horse power than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 63 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.

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, 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser
Make Mercedes-Benz Chrysler
Model SL PT Cruiser
Year Released 1998 2010
Body Type Convertible Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2799 cc 2427 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 204 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 214 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 73.5 mm 101 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.1:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 228 km/hour 240 km/hour
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 1873 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1900 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1550 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 57 L