2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Saturn SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SL would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 500 kg more than 1998 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SL. (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | C | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
