1988 Fiat Panda vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1988 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1988 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 564 kg more than 1988 Fiat Panda. 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Fiat Panda | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Fiat | Saturn |
| Model | Panda | ION |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 49 L |
