1995 Saturn SL vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Saturn SL would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (263 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1995 Saturn SL. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1995 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 675 kg more than 1995 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 452 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Saturn SL. (168 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Saturn SL. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1995 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1995 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Saturn SL | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Saturn | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | C |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1459 mm |
