2009 Kia Rondo vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Kia Rondo 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rondo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rondo (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rondo should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rondo weights approximately 229 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.
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 Kia Rondo (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rondo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 2009 Kia Rondo 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 Kia Rondo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rondo | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Kia | Saturn |
| Model | Rondo | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1400 mm |
