2004 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 8 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 409 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 2004 BMW 316 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 2004 BMW 316. 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, 2004 BMW 316 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW 316 | 1996 Saturn SL | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 316 | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1901 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1056 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |