2005 Saturn L vs. 1998 Saturn SL
To start off, 2005 Saturn L is newer by 7 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 2,194 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn L weights approximately 265 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.
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, 2005 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SL. (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn L | 1998 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Saturn | Saturn |
| Model | L | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2194 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
