1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C (298 HP) has 108 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 150 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz C.
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 Mercedes-Benz C (370 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 298 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4591 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2008 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
