2005 Mini Cooper vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2005 Mini Cooper is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mini Cooper (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mini Cooper weights approximately 70 kg more than 1997 Saturn SL. 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, 1997 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mini Cooper. (150 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mini Cooper. 2005 Mini Cooper has automatic transmission and 1997 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1997 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mini Cooper will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mini Cooper | 1997 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Mini | Saturn |
| Model | Cooper | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
