1997 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Saturn Sky

To start off, 2009 Saturn Sky is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Sky is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Sky (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Sky should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Sky weights approximately 34 kg more than 1997 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Saturn Sky (353 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Sky will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW 316 2009 Saturn Sky
Make BMW Saturn
Model 316 Sky
Year Released 1997 2009
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 101 HP 260 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 150 Nm 353 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 10.4:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 1344 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2420 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 49 L