2004 Honda FR-V vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Honda FR-V 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 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2004 Honda FR-V. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda FR-V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 308 kg more than 2004 Honda FR-V. 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 Honda FR-V, 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 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda FR-V. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda FR-V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda FR-V | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | FR-V | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
