2008 Chrysler 300 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Chrysler 300 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler 300 (340 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler 300 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 297 kg more than 2008 Chrysler 300.
Because 2008 Chrysler 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler 300 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, 2008 Chrysler 300 (529 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler 300 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1463 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
