2003 BMW 545 vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2003 BMW 545 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SL would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 545 weights approximately 614 kg more than 1996 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 545 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 2003 BMW 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SL, 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, 2003 BMW 545 (451 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL. 2003 BMW 545 has automatic transmission and 1996 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1996 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 545 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 545 | 1996 Saturn SL | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 545 | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1901 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 451 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1056 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |