1981 Renault 5 vs. 2005 Saturn L
To start off, 2005 Saturn L is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Renault 5 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn L (182 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1981 Renault 5. (158 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1981 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn L weights approximately 418 kg more than 1981 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Renault 5 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 Renault 5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Saturn L (258 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Renault 5. (221 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Renault 5 | 2005 Saturn L | |
| Make | Renault | Saturn |
| Model | 5 | L |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1468 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 59 L |
