1988 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP) has 81 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 44 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. 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, 1988 BMW M3 (245 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | M3 | ION |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
