1989 Austin Montego vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Austin Montego. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Austin Montego would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1989 Austin Montego. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1989 Austin Montego. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 140 kg more than 1989 Austin Montego. 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Austin Montego. (134 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Austin Montego.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Austin Montego | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Austin | Saturn |
| Model | Montego | ION |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
