1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang 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 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 @ 5550 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 2012 Ford Mustang. (305 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 484 kg more than 2012 Ford Mustang. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 387 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Mustang. (379 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Mustang. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 2012 Ford Mustang 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 | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SL | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7291 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 766 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1566 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
