1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Saturn SC
To start off, 2001 Saturn SC is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2001 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 760 kg more than 2001 Saturn SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saturn SC, 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 SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saturn SC. (155 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saturn SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | SL | SC |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
