2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn ION would be higher. At 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mazda | Saturn |
| Model | RX-8 | ION |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
