1996 Saturn SL vs. 2011 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 15 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, 2011 Hyundai Elantra (145 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 169 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, 2011 Hyundai Elantra (176 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 2011 Hyundai Elantra 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. 2011 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Saturn SL | 2011 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Saturn | Hyundai |
| Model | SL | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1435 mm |
