1981 Ford Granada vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Granada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Granada would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Granada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1981 Ford Granada. (68 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Granada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 576 kg more than 1981 Ford Granada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Granada 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 1981 Ford Granada. 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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Granada. (148 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Granada. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Granada has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Granada will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Granada | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | Ford | Saturn |
Model | Granada | ION |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 68 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 94.1 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1946 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2630 mm |