1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 15 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 34 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. (281 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 344 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
