1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 14 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (332 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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 549 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Silverado.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 332 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 498 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 98 L |
