2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 7 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, both vehicles can yield 460 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |
