1979 BMW M1 vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2004 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 20 kg more than 1979 BMW M1.
Because 1979 BMW M1 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 1979 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1979 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn L. 2004 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1979 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1979 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW M1 | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | M1 | L |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 62 L |
