2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Saturn ION would be higher. At 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 565 kg more than 2004 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Chrysler | Saturn |
| Model | PT Cruiser | ION |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2397 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
