2006 Saturn ION vs. 1961 Triumph TR3
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Triumph TR3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Triumph TR3 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1961 Triumph TR3. (101 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1961 Triumph TR3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 540 kg more than 1961 Triumph TR3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Triumph TR3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Triumph TR3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Triumph TR3. (172 Nm @ 3350 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Triumph TR3. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1961 Triumph TR3 has manual transmission. 1961 Triumph TR3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Saturn ION | 1961 Triumph TR3 | |
| Make | Saturn | Triumph |
| Model | ION | TR3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 2138 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1444 kg | 904 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 53 L |
