2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP) has 101 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (205 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 380 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 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. 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 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (271 Nm). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan 350Z | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | 350Z | ION |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 205 HP |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 49 L |
