2008 Saturn Astra vs. 2005 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 270 kg more than 2005 BMW 320.
Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra, 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, 2005 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra. 2005 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2008 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Saturn Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 2005 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Saturn | BMW |
| Model | Astra | 320 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 63 L |
