2009 Honda Ridgeline vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 3,470 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Ridgeline (250 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 701 kg more than 2009 Honda Ridgeline.
Because 2009 Honda Ridgeline is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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, 2009 Honda Ridgeline (335 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Ridgeline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Ridgeline | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ridgeline | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3470 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
