1983 Opel Rekord vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1983 Opel Rekord. (85 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 85 kg more than 1983 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Opel Rekord 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 1983 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Rekord. (193 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Opel Rekord | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Opel | Saturn |
| Model | Rekord | L |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2258 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
