1996 Saturn SC vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SC would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SC. (101 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1996 Saturn SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SC, 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 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SC. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1996 Saturn SC has manual transmission. 1996 Saturn SC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Saturn SC | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Saturn | BMW |
| Model | SC | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1901 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2500 mm |
