2002 Nissan Altima vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP) has 107 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 158 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | Altima | ION |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1257 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 49 L |
