1997 Opel Frontera vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Opel Frontera would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Frontera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1997 Opel Frontera. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Frontera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Frontera weights approximately 376 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION.
Because 1997 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Saturn ION. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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 Opel Frontera (203 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1997 Opel Frontera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Frontera | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Opel | Saturn |
| Model | Frontera | ION |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1639 kg | 1263 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
