2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Suzuki Baleno
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Suzuki Baleno. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Suzuki Baleno would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 530 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1015 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Baleno, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 861 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. (139 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Suzuki Baleno has manual transmission. 1999 Suzuki Baleno 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 | 1999 Suzuki Baleno | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | Baleno |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2120 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2490 mm |
