1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Saturn SC
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 1 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 245 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SC. 1998 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | SLK | SC |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
