2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (141 HP) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION.
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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (181 Nm). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | 6 | ION |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 50 L |
