2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn ION would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP) has 378 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1586 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | SL | ION |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 518 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.6 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 49 L |
