1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2005 Saturn L
To start off, 2005 Saturn L is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn L weights approximately 18 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn L. 2005 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2005 Saturn L | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | Z3 | L |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 59 L |
