1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Honda Odyssey
To start off, 2010 Honda Odyssey 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Honda Odyssey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Honda Odyssey (244 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Honda Odyssey should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Honda Odyssey weights approximately 220 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 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 Honda Odyssey, 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, 2010 Honda Odyssey (325 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Honda Odyssey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Honda Odyssey | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | SL | Odyssey |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 2030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5133 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1778 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 79 L |
