1988 Mazda 929 vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 929. (110 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 390 kg more than 1988 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mazda 929 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 1988 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Saturn Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 929. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mazda 929 | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 929 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
