2005 Saturn ION vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (173 HP) has 33 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 33 kg more than 2005 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn ION | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Saturn | Nissan |
| Model | ION | Altima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 173 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1263 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 76 L |
