1998 Saturn SL vs. 2012 Ford F-350
To start off, 2012 Ford F-350 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford F-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford F-350 (385 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford F-350 should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL.
Because 2012 Ford F-350 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Ford F-350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ford F-350 (548 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SL. (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Ford F-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SL. 2012 Ford F-350 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. 2012 Ford F-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SL | 2012 Ford F-350 | |
| Make | Saturn | Ford |
| Model | SL | F-350 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 548 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 6269 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1961 mm |
