2008 Lotus Elise vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Lotus Elise. (120 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2008 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 363 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Lotus Elise 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 Lotus Elise. 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lotus Elise | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Elise | ION |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 881 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 49 L |
