1997 Porsche Boxster 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 Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 194 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Because 1997 Porsche Boxster 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 Boxster. 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 Boxster (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Porsche Boxster 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 Boxster has manual transmission. 1997 Porsche Boxster 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 Boxster | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Porsche | Saturn |
| Model | Boxster | ION |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1444 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2630 mm |
