1998 Lotus GT 1 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 Lotus GT 1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus GT 1 would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Lotus GT 1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus GT 1 (580 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 440 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus GT 1 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 394 kg more than 1998 Lotus GT 1.
Because 1998 Lotus GT 1 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 1998 Lotus GT 1. 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, 1998 Lotus GT 1 (391 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Lotus GT 1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1998 Lotus GT 1 has manual transmission. 1998 Lotus GT 1 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:
| 1998 Lotus GT 1 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | GT 1 | ION |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 580 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 391 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1444 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2080 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2630 mm |
