1997 Buick Century vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 1997 Buick Century is newer by 1 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 464 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, 1997 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 1997 Buick Century 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. 1997 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Buick Century | 1996 Saturn SL | |
Make | Buick | Saturn |
Model | Century | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1901 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1056 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |