1972 Mazda 1000 vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda 1000 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (136 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1972 Mazda 1000. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Mazda 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 570 kg more than 1972 Mazda 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mazda 1000 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 1972 Mazda 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra, 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 Saturn Astra (125 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda 1000. (77 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mazda 1000 | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 1000 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 987 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |
