1996 Saturn SL vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 511 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 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Saturn SL | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1516 mm |
