2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 3 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (210 HP) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 428 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 2008 Dodge Nitro 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 2008 Dodge Nitro. 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (319 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Dodge | Saturn |
| Model | Nitro | ION |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1263 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 49 L |
