1981 Honda Accord vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 1996 Saturn SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Saturn SL weights approximately 166 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. 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, 1996 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Honda Accord | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Honda | Saturn |
| Model | Accord | SL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1602 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
