1997 Ford Ka 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 Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka 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 81 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 570 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. 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 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Ka 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 Ka | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | Ford | Saturn |
Model | Ka | ION |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2194 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 49 L |