2006 Opel Astra vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn ION would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 135 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, 2006 Opel Astra (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Opel | Saturn |
| Model | Astra | ION |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
