1978 Honda Accord 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 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Accord 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 126 more horse power than 1978 Honda Accord. (79 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 400 kg more than 1978 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Accord. (126 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Honda Accord | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Honda | Saturn |
| Model | Accord | ION |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1602 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 49 L |
