2008 Nissan Maxima vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 Nissan Maxima 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 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Maxima (255 HP) has 115 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 330 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.
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 Nissan Maxima (342 Nm) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2008 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Maxima | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Nissan | Saturn |
| Model | Maxima | ION |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1574 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 49 L |
