1996 BMW 332 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 332 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 1996 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 332 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 332 | ION |
Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 323 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |