1997 Saturn SL vs. 2010 Honda Civic
To start off, 2010 Honda Civic is newer by 13 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 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Honda Civic (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Honda Civic weights approximately 250 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, 2010 Honda Civic (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Saturn SL | 2010 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Saturn | Honda |
| Model | SL | Civic |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1899 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4503 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1753 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
