2001 Saturn SC vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saturn SC would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2001 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2001 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 180 kg more than 2001 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Saturn SC. (155 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Saturn SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Saturn SC | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Saturn | Saturn |
| Model | SC | ION |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1900 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2630 mm |
