2005 Saturn ION vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 25 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 87 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn ION | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | ION | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
