1999 Chrysler 300 vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 Chrysler 300 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,517 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chrysler 300 (251 HP @ 6450 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 90 kg more than 1999 Chrysler 300.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chrysler 300, 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, 1999 Chrysler 300 (346 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1999 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1999 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chrysler 300 | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3517 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6450 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 80 L |
