1989 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 2001 Saturn SC
To start off, 2001 Saturn SC is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2001 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2001 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 390 kg more than 2001 Saturn SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1989 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Saturn SC, 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, 1989 Nissan 300 ZX (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saturn SC. (155 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saturn SC. 2001 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 1989 Nissan 300 ZX has manual transmission. 1989 Nissan 300 ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Nissan 300 ZX | 2001 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | 300 ZX | SC |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 1900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2610 mm |
