1998 Saturn SL vs. 2001 Nissan X-Trail
To start off, 2001 Nissan X-Trail is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SL would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Nissan X-Trail is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Nissan X-Trail (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Nissan X-Trail should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan X-Trail weights approximately 787 kg more than 1998 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Nissan X-Trail is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Saturn SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Nissan X-Trail 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, 2001 Nissan X-Trail (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SL. (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Nissan X-Trail will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SL. 2001 Nissan X-Trail has automatic transmission and 1998 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1998 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Nissan X-Trail will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SL | 2001 Nissan X-Trail | |
| Make | Saturn | Nissan |
| Model | SL | X-Trail |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1842 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
