1978 Porsche 911 vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Porsche 911 (355 HP) has 214 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (141 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 69 kg more than 1978 Porsche 911.
Because 1978 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Porsche 911 (750 Nm) has 553 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1978 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Porsche 911 | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Porsche | Saturn |
| Model | 911 | ION |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 750 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1179 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
