1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 833 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Fairthorpe Atom 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 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Saturn |
| Model | Atom | ION |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 322 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 15 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 417 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
