1988 Morgan 4 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Morgan 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Morgan 4 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 18 more horse power than 1988 Morgan 4. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1988 Morgan 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 580 kg more than 1988 Morgan 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Morgan 4 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 1988 Morgan 4. 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Morgan 4. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Morgan 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Morgan 4 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Morgan | Saturn |
| Model | 4 | ION |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
