2008 Mercury Sable vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2008 Mercury Sable 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercury Sable (260 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL.
Because 2008 Mercury Sable 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 Mercury Sable 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 Mercury Sable (332 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 2008 Mercury Sable 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 Mercury Sable will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercury Sable | 1996 Saturn SL | |
Make | Mercury | Saturn |
Model | Sable | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1901 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1400 mm |