1971 BMW 3 vs. 2001 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 30 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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster 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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep, 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, 2001 Saab 05-Sep (280 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2001 Saab 05-Sep has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2001 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
