1979 Isuzu 117 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 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 2,236 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu 117. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 59 kg more than 1979 Isuzu 117. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Isuzu 117 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 1979 Isuzu 117. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu 117. (139 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu 117.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu 117 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Isuzu | Saturn |
| Model | 117 | ION |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2236 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 49 L |
