1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (140 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 486 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 Z3. 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 Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW Z3 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | Z3 | ION |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 191 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1946 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |