1976 Holden Torana vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Torana would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1976 Holden Torana. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 1095 kg more than 1976 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Holden Torana 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 1976 Holden Torana. 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Holden Torana. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Holden Torana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Torana | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Holden | Saturn |
| Model | Torana | ION |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1256 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2630 mm |
