1998 BMW M vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW M would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW M (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 285 kg more than 1998 BMW M.
Because 1998 BMW M 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 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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 M (340 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW M | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | M | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 46 L |
