2008 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ML | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 7291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 766 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2185 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 70 L |
