2012 Nissan Sentra vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 2 kg more than 2012 Nissan Sentra.
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, both vehicles can yield 199 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2004 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 2012 Nissan Sentra has manual transmission. 2012 Nissan Sentra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Sentra | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | Sentra | L |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4567 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1791 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1511 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2685 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.6 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
