2002 Proton 400 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 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Proton 400 would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2002 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2002 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 254 kg more than 2002 Proton 400. 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Proton 400 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Proton | Saturn |
| Model | 400 | ION |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2630 mm |
