2003 Porsche 996 vs. 1998 Saturn SL
To start off, 2003 Porsche 996 is newer by 5 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 3,594 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Porsche 996 weights approximately 350 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 2003 Porsche 996 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, 2003 Porsche 996 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, 2003 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SL. (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Porsche 996 | 1998 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Porsche | Saturn |
| Model | 996 | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3594 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
