1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Volkswagen CC

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen CC 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen CC. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen CC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 293 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen CC. 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 Volkswagen CC, 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 Volkswagen CC (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen CC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen CC has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen CC 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 Volkswagen CC
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model SL CC
Year Released 1998 2011
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2799 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 204 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1700 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1810 kg 1517 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4798 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1854 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1417 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 70 L