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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (384 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 | 5461 cc | 4965 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 384 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 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 | 1910 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2970 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 88 L |