1998 Saturn SC vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SC would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 354 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 610 kg more than 1998 Saturn SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 442 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SC. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Saturn SC has manual transmission. 1998 Saturn SC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SC | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Saturn | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SC | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 454 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4724 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2766 mm |
