2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (60 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda.
Because 2004 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Panda. (103 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Panda. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2004 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2004 Fiat Panda 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:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3600 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 80 L |
