1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Saturn SL
To start off, 1999 Saturn SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1999 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 751 kg more than 1999 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Saturn SL, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Saturn SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1999 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | S | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1806 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
