1998 Saturn SC vs. 2004 Saturn Relay
To start off, 2004 Saturn Relay is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SC would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Saturn Relay is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn Relay (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn Relay should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SC.
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, 2004 Saturn Relay (299 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn Relay will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SC. 2004 Saturn Relay has automatic transmission and 1998 Saturn SC has manual transmission. 1998 Saturn SC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Saturn Relay will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SC | 2004 Saturn Relay | |
| Make | Saturn | Saturn |
| Model | SC | Relay |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 3050 mm |
