2005 Saturn ION vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP) has 98 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 285 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn ION | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | ION | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 238 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1263 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.1 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 62 L |
