1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (141 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 160 kg more than 2006 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | S | ION |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 49 L |
