2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
