1988 BMW 524 vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 380 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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, 1988 BMW 524 (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 524 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
