2012 Honda Civic vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 2002 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saturn L weights approximately 122 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic.
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, 2002 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 2002 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 2012 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2012 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Honda Civic | 2002 Saturn L | |
| Make | Honda | Saturn |
| Model | Civic | L |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1800 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1216 kg | 1338 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
