2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Saturn SC
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Saturn SC would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1999 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 995 kg more than 1999 Saturn SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 642 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Saturn SC. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Saturn SC has manual transmission. 1999 Saturn SC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | SL | SC |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
