2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2009 Saturn Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2009 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 245 kg more than 2003 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan 350Z | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | 350Z | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |
