1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 GMC Acadia

To start off, 2011 GMC Acadia 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 GMC Acadia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 GMC Acadia (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 GMC Acadia should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 GMC Acadia weights approximately 282 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, 2011 GMC Acadia, 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 GMC Acadia (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 GMC Acadia 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 2011 GMC Acadia
Make Mercedes-Benz GMC
Model SL Acadia
Year Released 1998 2011
Body Type Convertible SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3197 cc 3600 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 224 HP 288 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 315 Nm 366 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3400 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 2112 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 5098 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1986 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1849 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 3020 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 83 L