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 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 243 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1030 kg more than 2004 Fiat Panda. 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 Fiat Panda, 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 @ 2700 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Panda. (265 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 | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.3 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 80 L |
