1973 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,097 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1973 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 395 kg more than 2004 Saturn L.
Because 1973 Chevrolet Impala 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 1973 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L, 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, 1973 Chevrolet Impala (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1973 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chevrolet Impala | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Impala | L |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4097 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2630 mm |
