2008 Chevrolet Express vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Express is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Express (323 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 503 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Express.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Express, 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, 2008 Chevrolet Express (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2008 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Express | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Express | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5999 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 506 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 12 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2080 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 80 L |
