1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (141 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2006 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 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:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | 280 | ION |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 49 L |
