1969 BMW 1600 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1969 BMW 1600. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1969 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 415 kg more than 1969 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 BMW 1600 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 1969 BMW 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 BMW 1600. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 BMW 1600 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 1600 | ION |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 49 L |
