1997 Audi A4 vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION. 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, 1997 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Audi | Saturn |
| Model | A4 | ION |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
