1997 Alpina B 10 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alpina B 10. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alpina B 10 would be higher. At 4,619 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Alpina B 10 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alpina B 10 (340 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alpina B 10 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 250 kg more than 1997 Alpina B 10.
Because 1997 Alpina B 10 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 1997 Alpina B 10. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1997 Alpina B 10 (471 Nm) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 10 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 10 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Alpina | Saturn |
| Model | B 10 | ION |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4619 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 471 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2630 mm |
