2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Skoda Octavia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Skoda Octavia would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1997 Skoda Octavia. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 605 kg more than 1997 Skoda Octavia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Skoda Octavia. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Skoda Octavia. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Skoda Octavia has manual transmission. 1997 Skoda Octavia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Skoda |
| Model | SL | Octavia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
