2004 Saturn ION vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Saturn ION would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP) has 142 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (141 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 836 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Saturn ION | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | ION | Routan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 283 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 78 L |
