2006 Saturn ION vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 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 16 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 115 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 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 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volvo |
| Model | ION | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 58 L |
