1996 Saturn SL vs. 2008 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 12 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 609 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, 2008 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 2008 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1996 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1996 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Saturn SL | 2008 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Saturn | Saab |
| Model | SL | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
