2003 Saturn L vs. 1971 Volvo 145
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 145. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 30 kg more than 1971 Volvo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 145 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 1971 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L, 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, 2003 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saturn L | 1971 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | L | 145 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
