1998 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 8 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 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 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 40 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 318 | ION |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 95 L |