1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (141 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 300 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Tempo | ION |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2630 mm |
