1993 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1993 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 519 kg more than 1993 Mazda 323. 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 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda 323. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1993 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1993 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mazda 323 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 323 | ION |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1444 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 49 L |
