1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Chrysler 300
To start off, 2012 Chrysler 300 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chrysler 300 (292 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 18 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chrysler 300 (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2012 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Chrysler 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chrysler |
| Model | SL | 300 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2798 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1828 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5044 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3053 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 72 L |
