2012 Porsche Panamera vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Porsche Panamera is newer by 14 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche Panamera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche Panamera (300 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Panamera should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche Panamera weights approximately 60 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Porsche Panamera is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Panamera 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, 2012 Porsche Panamera (400 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche Panamera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Porsche Panamera | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panamera | SL |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 7-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4968 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1931 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1408 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 80 L |
