1989 Dodge Viper 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 Dodge Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Viper would be higher. At 7,994 cc (10 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Viper (400 HP) has 259 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (141 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Viper weights approximately 206 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Dodge Viper 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 1989 Dodge Viper. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1989 Dodge Viper (610 Nm) has 413 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1989 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Viper | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Dodge | Saturn |
| Model | Viper | ION |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7994 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 610 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1454 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 50 L |
