1995 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (140 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1995 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 318 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Because 1995 BMW 318 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 1995 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 318 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 318 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 46 L |
