2007 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 665 kg more than 1997 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Saturn SL, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz E | 1997 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | E | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
