1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2008 Saturn Aura is newer by 10 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 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Aura (219 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2008 Saturn Aura, 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, 2008 Saturn Aura (297 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2008 Saturn Aura has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Saturn Aura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | SL | Aura |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 3474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 99.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
