2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 182 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 495 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | C |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 85.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |