1979 Citroen GSA vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen GSA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen GSA would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1979 Citroen GSA. (63 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen GSA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 310 kg more than 1979 Citroen GSA. 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 (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen GSA. (98 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen GSA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen GSA | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Citroen | Saturn |
| Model | GSA | ION |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2630 mm |
