2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 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 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 205 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, both vehicles can yield 270 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
