2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 234 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 315 HP |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
