1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Toyota Prius V
To start off, 2012 Toyota Prius V 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Prius V. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Prius V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 565 kg more than 2012 Toyota Prius V. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Toyota Prius V, 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 428 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Prius V. (142 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Prius V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Toyota Prius V | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Prius V |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1575 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2779 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
