1974 Alpine A 310 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (205 HP) has 78 more horse power than 1974 Alpine A 310. (127 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1974 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 505 kg more than 1974 Alpine A 310. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Alpine A 310 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 1974 Alpine A 310. 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, 2005 Saturn ION (271 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Alpine A 310. (146 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Alpine A 310 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Alpine | Saturn |
| Model | A 310 | ION |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1605 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 49 L |
