2003 Opel Speedster 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 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Speedster (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 195 kg more than 2003 Opel Speedster.
Because 2003 Opel Speedster 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 Opel Speedster. 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 Opel Speedster (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Speedster | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Opel | Saturn |
| Model | Speedster | ION |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 49 L |
