1999 Ford Econoline vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 Ford Econoline is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 7,275 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Ford Econoline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Econoline (213 HP @ 2800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Econoline should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Econoline weights approximately 685 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Ford Econoline (575 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 305 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Econoline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Econoline | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Econoline | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7275 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 213 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 575 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2060 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2520 mm |
