1981 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 24 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 520 | ION |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
