2008 BMW 323 vs. 2002 Saturn SC
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Saturn SC would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2002 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2002 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 420 kg more than 2002 Saturn SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Saturn SC, 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, 2008 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Saturn SC. (154 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Saturn SC. 2002 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2002 Saturn SC | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 323 | SC |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1901 cc |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
