2001 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,783 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (205 HP) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. (197 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 210 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION.
Because 2001 Pontiac Firebird 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 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (271 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Firebird | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Pontiac | Saturn |
| Model | Firebird | ION |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3783 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 49 L |
