1978 Mazda RX-2 vs. 2009 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2009 Saturn Aura is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,382 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Aura (167 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Aura weights approximately 369 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 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 1978 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Aura, 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 Aura (160 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-2 | 2009 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | RX-2 | Aura |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 2382 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2860 mm |
