2003 Chevrolet Prizm vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Prizm would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 321 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Prizm.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Prizm | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
Model | Prizm | ION |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1411 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2630 mm |