1998 Saturn SL vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SL would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1201 kg more than 1998 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Saturn SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 383 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SL. (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SL. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1998 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1998 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SL | 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Saturn | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 2256 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1816 mm |
