2009 Buick Enclave vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Buick Enclave is newer by 12 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. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Buick Enclave. (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Buick Enclave. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick Enclave weights approximately 177 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 Buick Enclave is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Buick Enclave will offer significantly more control. 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Buick Enclave. (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Buick Enclave. 2009 Buick Enclave 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. 2009 Buick Enclave will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Buick Enclave | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Enclave | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1946 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |
