1971 BMW 3 vs. 2007 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2007 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 36 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, 2007 Saab 03-Sep (247 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 310 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, 2007 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, 2007 Saab 03-Sep (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2007 Saab 03-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. 2007 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2007 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2680 mm |
