Only in hilly country did it become obvious that this powerplant had been charged with pulling a 3,700-pound car along. I should add a word about the weight. These materials also contribute the car's increased rigidity, which in turns improves handling and driveability. The power is put to the wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission that moves smoothly from gear to gear. Transitions from fourth to the third gear in hilly terrain are almost seamless.
Suspension is independent at all four wheels, and offers a smooth ride on the freeways and bypasses.
The result is a predictable understeer. The EPA says a six-cylinder Aurora may average between 19 miles per gallon of gasoline around town and 28 on the highway. I got about 2 mpg less in both categories. A look at the specifications will show that the new Aurora is six inches shorter overall than its predecessor and has a wheelbase that is 1.6 inches shorter. Put the two generations side by side and the size difference becomes apparent.