2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Saturn Aura
To start off, 2008 Saturn Aura is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Aura (219 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Aura (297 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2008 Saturn Aura has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Saturn Aura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2008 Saturn Aura | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 3 | Aura |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 3474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 297 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 99.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 75.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
