1997 BMW 318 vs. 2000 Saturn L
To start off, 2000 Saturn L is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Saturn L (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2000 Saturn L.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2000 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2000 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2000 Saturn L | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 318 | L |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
