1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 34 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | C | ION |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1444 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 49 L |
