1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 141 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 940 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 Mercedes-Benz Viano, 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | Viano |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 11.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.7 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 79 L |
