2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 180 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 100 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 384 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.1:1 |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |