2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Honda S-MX
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda S-MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda S-MX would be higher. At 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1998 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 423 kg more than 1998 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda S-MX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | SL | S-MX |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3722 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
