1998 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (115 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 66 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 318 | ION |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 49 L |
