2002 Chrysler 300 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Chrysler 300 is newer by 4 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 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chrysler 300 (251 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler 300 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 127 kg more than 2002 Chrysler 300.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Chrysler 300 (346 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2002 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler 300 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1633 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
