1998 Pontiac Sunfire 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 Pontiac Sunfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Sunfire would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Sunfire. (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Sunfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 50 kg more than 1998 Pontiac Sunfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Sunfire. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Sunfire.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Pontiac Sunfire | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | Pontiac | Saturn |
Model | Sunfire | ION |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2201 cc | 2199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |