2003 Saturn L vs. 2009 Scion tC
To start off, 2009 Scion tC is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saturn L 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 19 more horse power than 2009 Scion tC. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 2009 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 Scion tC. 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Scion tC. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Scion tC. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 2009 Scion tC has manual transmission. 2009 Scion tC 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 | 2009 Scion tC | |
| Make | Saturn | Scion |
| Model | L | tC |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
