2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
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 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 302 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 11 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (470 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |
