2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Saturn ION would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 140 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION, 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 SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Saturn ION | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
Model | SLK | ION |
Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2187 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 138 HP |
Torque | 240 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2630 mm |