1982 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Escort 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 (141 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 526 kg more than 1982 Ford Escort. 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1982 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1982 Ford Escort 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:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Escort | ION |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 49 L |
