1997 Saturn SL vs. 1990 Toyota Starlet
To start off, 1997 Saturn SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1990 Toyota Starlet. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Saturn SL weights approximately 325 kg more than 1990 Toyota Starlet. 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 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Toyota Starlet. (77 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Toyota Starlet.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Saturn SL | 1990 Toyota Starlet | |
| Make | Saturn | Toyota |
| Model | SL | Starlet |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1899 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
