1997 Saturn SL vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,983 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (178 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 526 kg more than 1997 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (240 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL. 1998 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1997 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1997 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Saturn SL | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1899 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
