2008 BMW 523 vs. 2002 Saturn L
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2002 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2002 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 152 kg more than 2002 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2002 Saturn L | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 523 | L |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
