1969 Chevrolet Vega vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 406 kg more than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Chevrolet Vega 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 1969 Chevrolet Vega. 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Chevrolet Vega. (164 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Chevrolet Vega.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Chevrolet Vega | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Vega | ION |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2287 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.9 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 49 L |
