1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Ferrari 599
To start off, 2011 Ferrari 599 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 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ferrari 599 (611 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ferrari 599 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 362 kg more than 2011 Ferrari 599.
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 2011 Ferrari 599 has manual transmission. 2011 Ferrari 599 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 | 2011 Ferrari 599 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ferrari |
| Model | SL | 599 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7291 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 611 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 9000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 9000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1688 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4666 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1336 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 105 L |
