2002 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2009 Saturn Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2009 Saturn Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Astra weights approximately 140 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Astra, 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, 2002 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm). This means 2002 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Saturn Astra. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2009 Saturn Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW M3 | 2009 Saturn Astra | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | M3 | Astra |
Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 170 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 45 L |