2003 Holden Astra vs. 2008 Saturn Sky
To start off, 2008 Saturn Sky is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Astra would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Sky is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Sky (173 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Sky should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Sky weights approximately 583 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Saturn Sky 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 2008 Saturn Sky. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Holden 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, 2008 Saturn Sky (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Sky will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Holden Astra | 2008 Saturn Sky | |
| Make | Holden | Saturn |
| Model | Astra | Sky |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2420 mm |
