2009 BMW 530 vs. 1998 Saturn SL
To start off, 2009 BMW 530 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saturn SL would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 530 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1998 Saturn SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SL, 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, 2009 BMW 530 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SL. (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 530 | 1998 Saturn SL | |
Make | BMW | Saturn |
Model | 530 | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2992 cc | 1901 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 480 Nm | 159 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |