2008 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 244 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Lumina.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Lumina. (305 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Lumina. 2008 Chevrolet Lumina has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Lumina will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Lumina | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Lumina | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 315 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
