1971 BMW 3 vs. 1985 Saab 9000
To start off, 1985 Saab 9000 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1985 Saab 9000. (173 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Saab 9000 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Saab 9000, 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, 1985 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1985 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1985 Saab 9000 | |
Make | BMW | Saab |
Model | 3 | 9000 |
Year Released | 1971 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 278 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |