2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 398 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 170 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 460 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 630 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.3 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
