2007 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 9 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2007 Daihatsu Copen. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 958 kg more than 2007 Daihatsu Copen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Daihatsu Copen. (120 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Daihatsu Copen. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Daihatsu Copen has manual transmission. 2007 Daihatsu Copen will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Daihatsu Copen | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Copen | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.7 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
