1998 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION.
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, 1998 Ford Taurus (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Taurus | ION |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
