2006 Saturn ION vs. 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning (236 HP) has 96 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 126 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning.
Because 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning 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 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning. 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, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning (305 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning has manual transmission. 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning 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 | 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning | |
| Make | Saturn | Vauxhall |
| Model | ION | VX Lightning |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 236 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 94.6 mm |
| 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 | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2420 mm |
