1948 GAZ M-20 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 58 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 GAZ M-20. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 GAZ M-20 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (141 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1948 GAZ M-20. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1948 GAZ M-20. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 GAZ M-20 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2006 Saturn ION.
Because 1948 GAZ M-20 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1948 GAZ M-20. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 GAZ M-20. (125 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 GAZ M-20. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1948 GAZ M-20 has manual transmission. 1948 GAZ M-20 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 GAZ M-20 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | GAZ | Saturn |
| Model | M-20 | ION |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2006 |
| Engine Size | 2120 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
