2008 Fiat Panda vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 10 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 970 kg more than 2008 Fiat Panda. 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, 2008 Fiat Panda, 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 (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2008 Fiat Panda 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:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 80 L |
