1983 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2009 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2009 Saturn Aura is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Aura (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1983 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Aura weights approximately 284 kg more than 1983 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Mazda RX-7 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 1983 Mazda RX-7. 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 (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mazda RX-7. 2009 Saturn Aura has automatic transmission and 1983 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1983 Mazda RX-7 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:
| 1983 Mazda RX-7 | 2009 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | RX-7 | Aura |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
