2002 Saturn SC vs. 1988 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2002 Saturn SC is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Saturn SC (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Tempo weights approximately 35 kg more than 2002 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, 1988 Ford Tempo (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Saturn SC. (154 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Saturn SC. 1988 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 2002 Saturn SC has manual transmission. 2002 Saturn SC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Saturn SC | 1988 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Saturn | Ford |
| Model | SC | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
