2005 Ford Freestyle vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Ford Freestyle is newer by 8 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 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2005 Ford Freestyle. (211 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Freestyle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Freestyle weights approximately 27 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2005 Ford Freestyle, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Freestyle. (281 Nm). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Freestyle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Freestyle | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Freestyle | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1796 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
