1981 Dodge Mirada vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Dodge Mirada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Dodge Mirada would be higher. At 5,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Dodge Mirada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Dodge Mirada (145 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (140 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Dodge Mirada should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Dodge Mirada weights approximately 415 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Dodge Mirada 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 1981 Dodge Mirada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1981 Dodge Mirada (343 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1981 Dodge Mirada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Dodge Mirada | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Dodge | Saturn |
| Model | Mirada | Astra |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5210 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2620 mm |
