2009 Mazda 2 vs. 1998 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 2 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saturn SL weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Mazda 2.
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, 1998 Saturn SL (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 2. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 2 | 1998 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 2 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
