2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP) has 102 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 511 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | SL | ION |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 49 L |
