2006 Saturn ION vs. 2005 Saturn L
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn L (182 HP) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn L weights approximately 18 kg more than 2006 Saturn ION. 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, 2005 Saturn L (258 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Saturn ION | 2005 Saturn L | |
| Make | Saturn | Saturn |
| Model | ION | L |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1468 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 59 L |
