2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 485 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | C | ION |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 59 L |
