2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 is newer by 13 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 817 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 2009 Chrysler 300 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Chrysler 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Chrysler 300 (340 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 2009 Chrysler 300 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. 2009 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Chrysler | Saturn |
| Model | 300 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
