2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saturn L would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 370 kg more than 2003 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L, 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 SLK (511 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saturn L. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Saturn L has manual transmission. 2003 Saturn L will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | SLK | L |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
