GaRsNoW said:
major spin in second. i could have easily spanked the gtp, but i couldnt hook up in first, and half of second. and by the time i was in second, the gtp had traction and took off.
GTPs have a touch more torque (240 ft/lbs and up depending on the year)than you do and as you say, automatic. Spin is a major concern for us with the traction control disabled... more so than for you, I'd wager.

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As far as you spanking a GTP, there are only 3 ways that would ever happen:
1- The GP driver sucked so bad it was sad.
2- The GP was in need of some serious maintenance.
3- The GP driver wasn't racing but you thought he was.
My 4-door family sedan ran 14.7 hot off the street and 14.3's stock all day at the track after a 45 min cooldown (granted it was a cool day). 0-60mph times were publically stated as being 6.6 but in reality were closer to 6.3. 2-door GPs (lighter and quicker than the sedans) could be made to break deep into the 13's with as little as 3 mods... a catback, cold air intake and a smaller S/C pulley. Total cost: under $500.
Thats all with a car that weighs a good 800+ pounds more than the Ion.
Ions are a nice car, something I would buy a teenage son or daughter. The word performance and Saturn Ion don't belong in the same phrase. Granted most people think the same for the GP. I enjoy changing their minds.
JPK, where in Texas are you? I'm from Montreal Qc, but am going to Texas in a few weeks. I'd love to arrange a meet between a few of the slower local GPs there and your Ion. I'll bring the video cam.