2006 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. (281 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 513 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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 (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 641 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Traverse |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5982 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
