1983 Lotus Excel vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lotus Excel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lotus Excel would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Lotus Excel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (205 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1983 Lotus Excel. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1983 Lotus Excel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 195 kg more than 1983 Lotus Excel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Lotus Excel 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 1983 Lotus Excel. 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Lotus Excel. (218 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Lotus Excel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Lotus Excel | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Excel | ION |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1020 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 49 L |
