1998 Buick LeSabre vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Buick LeSabre. (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 265 kg more than 1998 Buick LeSabre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick LeSabre, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Buick LeSabre. (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick LeSabre | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LeSabre | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
