2006 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. 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, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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 @ 4900 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW M3 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | M3 | Astra |
Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 171 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 46 L |