1988 BMW Z1 vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW Z1 (175 HP) has 34 more horse power than 2004 Saturn ION. (141 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW Z1 weights approximately 2 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW Z1 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 Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Z1 (230 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1988 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW Z1 | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | Z1 | ION |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
