2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL

To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 6 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 483 kg more than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (339 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
Make Chrysler Mercedes-Benz
Model PT Cruiser SL
Year Released 2004 1998
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2425 cc 4966 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 220 HP 302 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 339 Nm 461 Nm
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 97 mm
Engine Stroke Size 101 mm 84 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1407 kg 1890 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1300 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Consumption 8.7 L/100km 9.6 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 11.2 L/100km 17.9 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 10.2 L/100km 12.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 57 L 80 L