2009 Lexus GS vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Lexus GS 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 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (303 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus GS weights approximately 685 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 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS (372 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL. 2009 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus GS | 1997 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Lexus | Saturn |
| Model | GS | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3456 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
