1998 Saturn SC 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 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SC would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 905 kg more than 1998 Saturn SC. 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Saturn SC | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Saturn | Saturn |
| Model | SC | ION |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2630 mm |
