2000 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2000 BMW 318. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 90 kg more than 2000 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 318 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 318 | ION |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 49 L |
