2009 Hummer H3 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Hummer H3 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2009 Hummer H3. (239 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Hummer H3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hummer H3 weights approximately 312 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 Hummer H3 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 Hummer H3 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Hummer H3. (327 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Hummer H3. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Hummer H3 has manual transmission. 2009 Hummer H3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hummer H3 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Hummer | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | H3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 102 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2202 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2170 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 13.1 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 17.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 80 L |
