1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Honda Civic
To start off, 2011 Honda Civic 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP) has 380 more horse power than 2011 Honda Civic. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Honda Civic.
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 Honda Civic, 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 (766 Nm) has 592 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Civic. (174 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Civic. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2011 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2011 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | SL | Civic |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7291 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 766 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
