2006 Mazda 2 vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 2 weights approximately 99 kg more than 1996 Saturn SL.
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, 1996 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 2 | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 2 | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
