1996 Saturn SL vs. 2007 Seat Leon
To start off, 2007 Seat Leon is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Seat Leon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Seat Leon (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Seat Leon should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Seat Leon weights approximately 300 kg more than 1996 Saturn SL. 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, 2007 Seat Leon (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Seat Leon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Saturn SL | 2007 Seat Leon | |
| Make | Saturn | Seat |
| Model | SL | Leon |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
