2006 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn ION would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP) has 198 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 411 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION, 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | M3 | ION |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 49 L |
