2002 Porsche 911 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Porsche 911 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 3,588 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche 911 (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 911 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 380 kg more than 2002 Porsche 911.
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 Porsche 911 (366 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2002 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2002 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 2002 Porsche 911 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Porsche 911 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 911 | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3588 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2520 mm |
