1997 Saturn SL vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 15 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1252 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.
Because 2012 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Saturn SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Saturn SL | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | T5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1899 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1910 mm |
