2008 Saturn Astra vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Saturn Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Saturn Astra would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 600 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW M3 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 2012 BMW M3. 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Astra | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Saturn | BMW |
| Model | Astra | M3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 63 L |
