1979 Nissan 260 ZX vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Nissan 260 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. (124 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 790 kg more than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Nissan 260 ZX 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 Nissan 260 ZX. 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX. (189 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Nissan 260 ZX.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Nissan 260 ZX | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | Nissan | Saturn |
Model | 260 ZX | ION |
Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2565 cc | 2199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 189 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2630 mm |