1997 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Falcon (205 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Falcon weights approximately 85 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 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. 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 Ford Falcon (357 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Falcon has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Falcon 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:
1997 Ford Falcon | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | Ford | Saturn |
Model | Falcon | ION |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3984 cc | 2194 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 205 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 357 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2630 mm |