1997 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 7,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (286 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 974 kg more than 2006 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 Chevrolet Express. 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 Chevrolet Express (555 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 358 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | Express | ION |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Van | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7439 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 555 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 2424 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2630 mm |
