1997 Saturn SL vs. 2008 Seat Leon
To start off, 2008 Seat Leon is newer by 11 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Seat Leon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Seat Leon (237 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Seat Leon should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Seat Leon weights approximately 325 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, 2008 Seat Leon (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Seat Leon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Saturn SL | 2008 Seat Leon | |
| Make | Saturn | Seat |
| Model | SL | Leon |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1899 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
