2001 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 405 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | M3 | ION |
Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2630 mm |