2004 Holden Astra vs. 2008 Saturn Sky
To start off, 2008 Saturn Sky is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Holden Astra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Sky is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Sky (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2004 Holden Astra. (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Sky should accelerate faster than 2004 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Sky weights approximately 51 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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 (353 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Holden Astra. (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Sky will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Holden Astra | 2008 Saturn Sky | |
| Make | Holden | Saturn |
| Model | Astra | Sky |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
