2003 Chevrolet Astro vs. 2008 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2008 Saturn Aura is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Astro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Astro would be higher. At 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Aura. (164 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Aura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 665 kg more than 2008 Saturn Aura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Astro 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 2003 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Aura. (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Aura.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Astro | 2008 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Astro | Aura |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4292 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 61 L |
