2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. (230 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 257 kg more than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 449 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. (351 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 Saab 03-Sep has manual transmission. 2001 Saab 03-Sep will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
| Model | SL | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
