2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet SSR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet SSR would be higher. At 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP) has 156 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 891 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.
Because 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Saturn |
| Model | SSR | ION |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1263 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2630 mm |
