1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Aston Martin Vantage
To start off, 2013 Aston Martin Vantage is newer by 15 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 5,935 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Aston Martin Vantage is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 180 kg more than 2013 Aston Martin Vantage.
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, 2013 Aston Martin Vantage (469 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Aston Martin Vantage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Aston Martin Vantage | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Aston Martin |
| Model | SL | Vantage |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 5935 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 0 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 469 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4382 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
