2001 Ford Econovan vs. 2004 Saturn Relay
To start off, 2004 Saturn Relay is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Saturn Relay is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn Relay (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2001 Ford Econovan. (96 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn Relay should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Econovan.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saturn Relay, 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, 2004 Saturn Relay (299 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Econovan. (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn Relay will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Econovan. 2004 Saturn Relay has automatic transmission and 2001 Ford Econovan has manual transmission. 2001 Ford Econovan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Saturn Relay will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Econovan | 2004 Saturn Relay | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Econovan | Relay |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Van | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 3050 mm |
