2005 Saturn ION vs. 1964 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 78 more horse power than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. (62 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 539 kg more than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Triumph Spitfire 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 1964 Triumph Spitfire. 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Triumph Spitfire. (91 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn ION | 1964 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Saturn | Triumph |
| Model | ION | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 40 L |
