2004 Saturn ION vs. 1995 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Toyota MR2 (173 HP) has 32 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (141 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn ION weights approximately 13 kg more than 1995 Toyota MR2.
Because 1995 Toyota MR2 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 1995 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Saturn ION | 1995 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Saturn | Toyota |
| Model | ION | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 173 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
