2009 Acura MDX vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Acura MDX is newer by 12 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 3,663 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura MDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura MDX (300 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura MDX should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura MDX weights approximately 729 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.
Because 2009 Acura MDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Saturn SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura MDX 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, 2009 Acura MDX (373 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Acura MDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL. 2009 Acura MDX 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. 2009 Acura MDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura MDX | 1997 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Acura | Saturn |
| Model | MDX | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3663 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1784 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1400 mm |
