1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP) has 177 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 747 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | S | ION |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1257 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
