2005 Saturn L vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn L would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP) has 232 more horse power than 2005 Saturn L. (182 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 187 kg more than 2005 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW M3 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn L. (258 Nm). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saturn L | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Saturn | BMW |
| Model | L | M3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 414 HP |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1468 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 17.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 63 L |
