1972 Chevrolet Chevelle vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle would be higher. At 5,011 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle weights approximately 327 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Chevelle | ION |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5011 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1577 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2630 mm |
