1994 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (145 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (141 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 240 kg more than 1994 Mazda 323.
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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (183 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1994 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1994 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:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 323 | ION |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 49 L |
