1999 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2004 Saturn ION is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (141 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (140 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1999 BMW 318 (200 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 318 | ION |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
