1974 Mazda 1000 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 1000 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 1000. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 610 kg more than 1974 Mazda 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mazda 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L, 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, 2003 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 1000. (77 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 1000. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1974 Mazda 1000 has manual transmission. 1974 Mazda 1000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mazda 1000 | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 1000 | L |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 986 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 710 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
