1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 410 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | 280 | ION |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2630 mm |
