2005 Saturn ION vs. 2001 Saturn L
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 5 more horse power than 2001 Saturn L. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2001 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saturn L weights approximately 72 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, 2001 Saturn L (199 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2001 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn ION | 2001 Saturn L | |
| Make | Saturn | Saturn |
| Model | ION | L |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1263 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
