2008 GMC Sierra vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2008 GMC Sierra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SL would be higher. At 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Sierra (353 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1379 kg more than 1996 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 GMC Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Saturn SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 GMC Sierra (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 2008 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 1996 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1996 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Sierra | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | GMC | Saturn |
| Model | Sierra | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5999 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 353 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 506 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2435 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6340 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1400 mm |
