2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 12 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (377 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 780 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (392 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1997 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1997 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1997 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | CLS | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 377 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 392 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
