1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2002 Saturn L is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saturn L (135 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 22 kg more than 2002 Saturn L.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Saturn L, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2002 Saturn L | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
Model | 230 | L |
Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2298 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 135 HP |
Torque | 205 Nm | 199 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 94.6 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1338 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |