2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Porsche 911
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 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Porsche 911 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 468 kg more than 1998 Porsche 911.
Because 1998 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Porsche 911 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Porsche 911. (350 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Porsche 911. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 1998 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | SL | 911 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 296 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 280 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |
