2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 42 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.
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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLR McLaren | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 617 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 780 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.1 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1768 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 80 L |
