1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 5 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 165 kg more than 2003 Saab 03-Sep.
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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2003 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
