1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Saturn Vue

To start off, 2008 Saturn Vue is newer by 12 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 206 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Vue. (170 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Vue. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Saturn Vue. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2008 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 360 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Vue. (220 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Vue.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 2008 Saturn Vue
Make Mercedes-Benz Saturn
Model SL Vue
Year Released 1996 2008
Body Type Convertible SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5987 cc 2391 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 376 HP 170 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 580 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1800 kg 1735 kg
Vehicle Length 4470 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1710 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 72 L