2006 Saturn ION vs. 1980 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Vauxhall Astra 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 67 more horse power than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 595 kg more than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. 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 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Vauxhall Astra. (102 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Saturn ION | 1980 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Saturn | Vauxhall |
| Model | ION | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
