2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 211 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Traverse | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 366 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 80 L |