2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 10 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (122 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 645 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 646 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (154 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11:00 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 59 L |
