2009 Ford Flex vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Ford Flex is newer by 11 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 844 kg more than 2009 Ford Flex.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Flex, 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, 2009 Ford Flex (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Flex | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Flex | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 262 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 336 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.1:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |