2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Porsche Boxster
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1997 Porsche Boxster. (201 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Porsche Boxster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 625 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 455 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Porsche Boxster. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Porsche Boxster. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Porsche Boxster has manual transmission. 1997 Porsche Boxster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Porsche Boxster | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
Model | SL | Boxster |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 5441 cc | 2480 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 494 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 85.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2360 mm |