2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saturn L (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saturn L weights approximately 195 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Saturn L | |
Make | Mazda | Saturn |
Model | 3 | L |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 257 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |