2009 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (377 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 535 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 Mercedes-Benz CL (391 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CL | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 377 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
