1996 Rover 200 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 200 would be higher. At 2,194 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1996 Rover 200. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 315 kg more than 1996 Rover 200. 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 200. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 200. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1996 Rover 200 has manual transmission. 1996 Rover 200 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:
| 1996 Rover 200 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Rover | Saturn |
| Model | 200 | ION |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1135 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2630 mm |
