2003 Saturn L vs. 2009 BMW 125
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saturn L would be higher. Both 2003 Saturn L and 2009 BMW 125 are equipped with a 2,996 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (180 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2003 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Saturn L, 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, 2009 BMW 125 (271 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saturn L. (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saturn L | 2009 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Saturn | BMW |
| Model | L | 125 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 53 L |
