1998 Saturn SL vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 14 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SL. (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SL | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Saturn | Chevrolet |
| Model | SL | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1516 mm |
