1976 BMW 3.3 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 BMW 3.3 (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 BMW 3.3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 BMW 3.3 weights approximately 174 kg more than 2003 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 BMW 3.3 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 1976 BMW 3.3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L, 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, 1976 BMW 3.3 (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1976 BMW 3.3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saturn L. 1976 BMW 3.3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Saturn L has manual transmission. 2003 Saturn L will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 BMW 3.3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 BMW 3.3 | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 3.3 | L |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 59 L |
