2008 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Saturn ION would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn ION (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2004 Saturn ION.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 2008 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 316. (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 2004 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 316 | ION |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
