1996 Saturn SL vs. 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 17 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 (16 cylinders), 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer (146 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 244 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.
Because 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Saturn SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer (197 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Saturn SL | 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Saturn | Mitsubishi |
| Model | SL | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
