1992 BMW 518 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1992 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 790 kg more than 1992 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 518 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 1992 BMW 518. 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 518 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 518 | ION |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
