1990 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2002 Saturn L is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2002 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saturn L weights approximately 138 kg more than 1990 BMW M3.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Saturn L, 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2002 Saturn L | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | M3 | L |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
