2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Mitsubishi SST
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi SST. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi SST would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi SST. (210 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi SST. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 710 kg more than 1998 Mitsubishi SST. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi SST, 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 404 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mitsubishi SST. (296 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mitsubishi SST.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Mitsubishi SST | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | SL | SST |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2570 mm |
