1998 Suzuki Baleno vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Suzuki Baleno. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Suzuki Baleno would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Baleno. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Baleno.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Baleno, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Baleno. (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Baleno. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Suzuki Baleno has manual transmission. 1998 Suzuki Baleno will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Baleno | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Suzuki | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Baleno | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 80 L |
