2008 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saturn L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saturn L would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (180 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2003 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Saturn L (257 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525. 2003 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2003 Saturn L | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 525 | L |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
