2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport. (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport. (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Trans Sport | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Trans Sport | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2560 mm |
