2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1998 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 11 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 3,299 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (175 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 636 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, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SL. (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SL. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1998 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1998 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1998 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Saturn |
| Model | Grand Caravan | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3299 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
