1981 Daihatsu Delta vs. 2001 Saturn L
To start off, 2001 Saturn L is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Daihatsu Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Daihatsu Delta would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Daihatsu Delta. (91 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1981 Daihatsu Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saturn L weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 Daihatsu Delta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Daihatsu Delta 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 1981 Daihatsu Delta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Daihatsu Delta. (147 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Daihatsu Delta. 2001 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1981 Daihatsu Delta has manual transmission. 1981 Daihatsu Delta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Daihatsu Delta | 2001 Saturn L | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Saturn |
| Model | Delta | L |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1770 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2200 mm | 2710 mm |
