1971 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP) has 40 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 117 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.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 3 | ION |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1263 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2630 mm |
