1990 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1990 Ford Fiesta. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 410 kg more than 1990 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2003 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Fiesta. (183 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Fiesta. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1990 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1990 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Fiesta | L |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 59 L |
