2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP) has 89 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (141 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 708 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
Because 2000 Caterham 21 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 2000 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2000 Caterham 21 (210 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2000 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Caterham | Saturn |
| Model | 21 | ION |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 50 L |
