1997 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche 911 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche 911 (520 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 379 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (141 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION.
Because 1997 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911. 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 Porsche 911 (685 Nm) has 488 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1997 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 has manual transmission. 1997 Porsche 911 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 Porsche 911 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Porsche | Saturn |
| Model | 911 | ION |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 520 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 685 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
