1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Saturn Vue

To start off, 2006 Saturn Vue is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2006 Saturn Vue. (250 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn Vue. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn Vue weights approximately 146 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.

Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Saturn Vue, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn Vue. (328 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn Vue.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 2006 Saturn Vue
Make Mercedes-Benz Saturn
Model SL Vue
Year Released 1996 2006
Body Type Convertible SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5987 cc 3474 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 376 HP 250 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 580 Nm 328 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1800 kg 1946 kg
Vehicle Length 4470 mm 4610 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1700 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 61 L