2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 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 C30. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 would be higher. At 2,950 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 (227 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2006 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 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 C30. 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 C30 (540 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | C30 | ION |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2950 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 49 L |
