1997 Nissan Primera 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 Nissan Primera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Primera would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Primera. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Primera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 Nissan Primera. 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 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Primera. (136 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Primera.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Primera | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | Primera | ION |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2630 mm |
