1971 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2002 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 31 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, 2002 Saab 03-Sep (208 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 165 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Saab 03-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, 2002 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2002 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 61 L |
