2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 3,699 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 904 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 Dodge Nitro 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, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Dodge | Saturn |
| Model | Nitro | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3699 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
