1972 BMW 3 vs. 2004 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2004 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 138 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2004 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| 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 | 201 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2700 mm |
