1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 1997 Saturn SL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 305 kg more than 1997 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Saturn SL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Saturn SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
Model | SL | SL |
Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |