1978 Renault 4 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 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Aura (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Aura weights approximately 672 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Saturn Aura (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (58 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4. 2009 Saturn Aura has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Saturn Aura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Renault 4 | 2009 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Renault | Saturn |
| Model | 4 | Aura |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 845 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 61 L |
