2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 195 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 361 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
