1997 Ford Ranger vs. 1996 Saturn SC
To start off, 1997 Ford Ranger is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SC would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Ranger (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SC. (101 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ranger weights approximately 350 kg more than 1996 Saturn SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Ranger is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SC, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ranger | 1996 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Ranger | SC |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2610 mm |
