1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2003 Mercury Sable is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2003 Mercury Sable. (152 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercury Sable. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 204 kg more than 2003 Mercury Sable. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercury Sable, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercury Sable. (246 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercury Sable. 2003 Mercury Sable has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercury |
| Model | SL | Sable |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 2982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
