2008 Opel Astra vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 60 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION.
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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Opel | Saturn |
| Model | Astra | ION |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2630 mm |
