2004 Honda Odyssey vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Honda Odyssey is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Honda Odyssey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Honda Odyssey (240 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda Odyssey should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Odyssey weights approximately 195 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Honda Odyssey, 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, 2004 Honda Odyssey (328 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm). This means 2004 Honda Odyssey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Odyssey | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Odyssey | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3474 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 328 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 80 L |
