2004 BMW 535 vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2004 BMW 535 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saturn SL would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 535 (268 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 535 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1997 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 535 (561 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 403 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL. 2004 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1997 Saturn SL has manual transmission. 1997 Saturn SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW 535 | 1997 Saturn SL | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 535 | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 561 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |