2009 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 4 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 Saturn ION. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 185 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 2009 BMW 318 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 2009 BMW 318. 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, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 318 | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 318 | ION |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2630 mm |
