2001 Saturn L vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2001 Saturn L is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SL would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saturn L weights approximately 279 kg more than 1996 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2001 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Saturn L | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Saturn | Saturn |
| Model | L | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
