1998 Mazda Laputa vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda Laputa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda Laputa would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 Mazda Laputa. (57 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda Laputa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 440 kg more than 1998 Mazda Laputa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mazda Laputa is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Saturn ION. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda Laputa will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda Laputa. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda Laputa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda Laputa | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | Laputa | ION |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2630 mm |
