1998 BMW 320 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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 446 kg more than 1998 BMW 320.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 320 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 320 | ION |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2169 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1946 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 | 63 L | 49 L |