1980 Renault 5 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (205 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Renault 5. (158 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 360 kg more than 1980 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Renault 5 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 1980 Renault 5. 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 (271 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 5. (221 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Renault 5 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Renault | Saturn |
| Model | 5 | ION |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 49 L |
