2012 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2012 Chevrolet Traverse would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 328 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Traverse | SL |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2113 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5207 mm | 4612 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1991 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1849 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2585 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
