1972 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 80 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | E | ION |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2630 mm |
