2001 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Saturn ION
To start off, 2007 Saturn ION is newer by 6 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 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2007 Saturn ION. (145 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 266 kg more than 2007 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, 2007 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 (502 Nm) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Saturn ION. (203 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Saturn ION. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2007 Saturn ION has manual transmission. 2007 Saturn ION will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 2007 Saturn ION | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | M3 | ION |
Year Released | 2001 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 502 Nm | 203 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 49 L |