1978 GMC Suburban vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1978 GMC Suburban. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Suburban weights approximately 956 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION.
Because 1978 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Saturn ION. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 GMC Suburban (242 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1978 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 GMC Suburban | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | GMC | Saturn |
| Model | Suburban | ION |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2630 mm |
