1996 Saturn SL vs. 2009 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius is newer by 13 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Prius (110 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Prius weights approximately 274 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, 1996 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Prius. 2009 Toyota Prius 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. 2009 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Saturn SL | 2009 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Saturn | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Prius |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
