2009 Lotus Exige vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Lotus Exige 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 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Exige (257 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL.
Because 2009 Lotus Exige 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 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Exige | 1997 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Exige | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 257 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1400 mm |
