2007 Saturn Aura vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Saturn Aura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Saturn Aura would be higher. At 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Saturn Aura (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 2012 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, 2007 Saturn Aura (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2007 Saturn Aura has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Saturn Aura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Saturn Aura | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Saturn | Mazda |
| Model | Aura | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
