1996 Nissan Maxima 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 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (205 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 15 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION.
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, 2005 Saturn ION (271 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Maxima. (178 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Nissan Maxima | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | Maxima | ION |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
