2008 BMW X3 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Saturn ION would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 618 kg more than 2005 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn ION. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2005 Saturn ION has manual transmission. 2005 Saturn ION will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW X3 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | X3 | ION |
Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 197 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 49 L |