1971 Renault 17 vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2002 Saturn L is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 17 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1971 Renault 17. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saturn L weights approximately 283 kg more than 1971 Renault 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 17. (133 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 17. 2002 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1971 Renault 17 has manual transmission. 1971 Renault 17 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Renault 17 | 2002 Saturn L | |
| Make | Renault | Saturn |
| Model | 17 | L |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1565 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
