1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 81 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saturn L. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Saturn |
| Model | Golf | L |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2323 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1239 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
