2003 Saturn L vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 215 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saturn L | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | L | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2512 mm |
