1997 Saturn SL vs. 2013 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2013 Subaru Outback is newer by 16 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 2,500 cc (16 cylinders), 2013 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Subaru Outback (171 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Subaru Outback weights approximately 503 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 2013 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Saturn SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Subaru Outback 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, 2013 Subaru Outback (236 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL. 2013 Subaru Outback 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. 2013 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Saturn SL | 2013 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Saturn | Subaru |
| Model | SL | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1899 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 16 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1558 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1670 mm |
