1981 Mazda Cosmo vs. 2001 Pontiac Aztek
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Aztek is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Aztek is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Aztek (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (120 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Aztek should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Aztek weights approximately 564 kg more than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda Cosmo 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 Mazda Cosmo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Aztek, 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, 2001 Pontiac Aztek (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Pontiac Aztek will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. 2001 Pontiac Aztek has automatic transmission and 1981 Mazda Cosmo has manual transmission. 1981 Mazda Cosmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Aztek will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda Cosmo | 2001 Pontiac Aztek | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | Cosmo | Aztek |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1714 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
