1990 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 520 (145 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 98 kg more than 2006 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1990 BMW 520 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 520 | ION |
Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2195 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1444 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |