1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 13 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 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (230 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala 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 105 kg more than 2011 Chevrolet Impala.
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, 2011 Chevrolet Impala, 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, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (318 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2011 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2011 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Impala |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 3900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
