2006 Saturn ION vs. 1973 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (141 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 334 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 1973 Chrysler Centura. 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Centura.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Saturn ION | 1973 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Saturn | Chrysler |
| Model | ION | Centura |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
