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Okay so currently I am looking at a 2003 Saturn Ion Quad Coupe 3 with 110k miles for $4,800. I am also looking at Grand Prix's from 2004 and beyond, these cars are going for just around $5,800-$6,400 (and more, but I am not really considering those). Now keep in mind, I am a first time driver looking to buy my first car.

I always wanted a sporty two door more than anything (a monte carlo ss to be exact) but then I just realized how inconvenient they are. Then I started considering Grand Prix's (after 2004) because they still look pretty sporty and nice and are a lot more practical. Now I really like this Saturn Ion because it is a two door, but you still have the suicide doors so you really have a 4 door.

The Saturn has a lot better MPG too, which will help being a first time driver. The Ion seems a lot more reliable and will probably last longer too. The car is shockingly big on the inside, and the back is very roomy (ironically, you have more leg room in the back of the Ion compared to the GP). The car is small and easier to drive, but thats also bad because if you look at the size of the center console... its pathetic! But the Saturn is a very unique and practical car too. I like cars that are more unique and not as common, like thats why I initially looked at the Monte Carlo compared to a different two door. I REALLY love the suicide doors, I think they are so convenient (heck almost more convenient than regular doors) and they are really cool and also VERY unique (I like to have more unique stuff that everyone else doesn't have).

Now for the Grand Prix. The Grand Prix is a normal four door and it looks pretty sporty and nice. The inside is very nice (nicer than the Saturn) and has a lot more features and stuff like that. The car is a lot more powerful too compared to the Saturn. This car is bigger too, not to say the Saturn isn't big (like I said, the inside is shockingly big and same with the trunk), but this car has a bigger trunk and interior in general. The interior looks a lot sportier and nicer too (the dash has a cool red color too it and it looks really nice, while the Saturn has this goofy styled speedometer and everything in the MIDDLE of the car, not INFRONT of the driver (steering wheel) and also the steering wheel in the Ion is small and looks a little funny). These cars are pretty common though, and there isn't too much uniqueness with them. A lot of people have GP's, including a lot of kids at my school.

The Ion is generally a much cheaper car and you save money on gas more, while the Grand Prix gets you a lot more car for some extra money. Grand Prix's are very common used on craigslist (I am basically only looking for 2004's since the others are too expensive), while these Quad Coupes are pretty rare and they are usually over priced or not nice. This one I am considering is a nice price and in nice condition. Its cloth (I really want leather, but I can't really find any Ion's with leather, and Grand Prix's... well some have it some don't), it has a sunroof/moonroof (another feature that I really wanted), and also it has a new upgraded radio and speakers. It needs all new tires though, and also, heres the kicker, it does NOT have ABS or traction control, which is HIGHLY unfortunate considering I live in Michigan and am a first time driver.

So heres what I ask, whats your opinion, should I get this Saturn before its sold? Remember, these are rare to come by and this one is pretty perfect so far besides the ABS (which is a real bummer), 110k miles, and not really any features besides cruise control and sun/moonroof. OR should I just keep looking and waiting for a Grand Prix that I can afford and is nice (I am actually going to look at a couple tomorrow or friday) or maybe another Ion? Thank you!!! Your a real big help!

You also should compare car insurance quotes for cars before buying one, for example here - carinsurance.yoll.net

i really like with Pontiac Grand Prix.
wait for grand prix

How'd you manage to pick two of the worst cars ever built, not to mention extinct as in gone the way of the dinosaurs at double the price of what they are worth!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hello, that is a nice comparing between two cars. I know it sux when we have to make decision :D.
U r just like me. I always wanted sport car but also hesitate about the inconveniences. Bigger cars are useful when moving, loading stuff, getting in and out the car... Sporty cars are for enthusiasts, and the youths; enjoy whatever u want.Two of your choices are patriotic domestic cars. Someone might ask why are you buying these cars, they are not reliable.... But, believe me, they are not quite correct. It sometime depends on the purposes and desires of each person, such as admiring some specific car makers,want to be unique, low cost of maintenance, be atrative by the design, details... You have good reasons to look for these cars. I havent tried these cars, so my opinion is based on the exterior, the outside. The Monte Carlo' rear end looks unique, so it may be collectable.I would go for the Ion beause it look sportier, and more modern than the Grand Prix. Otherwise it is rare, hence the price is a litle bit high. GP will consume more fuel, and seems heavier. U need higher MPG (mile per gallon) to SAVE $$, SAVE the Earth, and SAVE the economy.
In addition, there are many choices. Look them up on Craigslist, u may find some good deals. Personnaly, If i were looking for USDM cars, I would look for Focus SVT, Contour SVT, Neon (or SRT4), Chrysler PT (GT), SAAB 9-5, 9-3, Dodge Stratus coupe.
If u are young driver, 4 doors , and 4 cylinder cars have cheaper insurances.
Lastly, u can search for more info on car forums online.
Good luck finding a good deal :)

I wouldn't pick either one.
There are too many cars out there to limit yourself to these pieces of garbage.