2005 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 8 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 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 465 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 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. 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, 2005 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
2005 BMW 320 | 1997 Saturn SL | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 320 | SL |
Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |