2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 665 kg more than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 57 L |
