2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Saturn ION would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 266 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Saturn ION. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | R | ION |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.9 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 49 L |
