2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Saturn ION. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Saturn ION would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2006 Saturn ION. (141 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2006 Saturn ION. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2006 Saturn ION. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | Z4 | ION |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.3 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 49 L |
