1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, 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 (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
Model | SL | Sonic |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2525 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.6 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 17.9 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 46 L |