1972 Opel Commodore vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1972 Opel Commodore. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 280 kg more than 1972 Opel Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Opel Commodore 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 Opel Commodore. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Commodore. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
1972 Opel Commodore | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | Opel | Saturn |
Model | Commodore | ION |
Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2490 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |