1980 Plymouth Horizon vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 450 kg more than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Plymouth Horizon | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Plymouth | Saturn |
| Model | Horizon | ION |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1714 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2630 mm |
