1972 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Saab 9-7X
To start off, 2006 Saab 9-7X is newer by 34 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 4,195 cc, 2006 Saab 9-7X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saab 9-7X (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saab 9-7X should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saab 9-7X weights approximately 255 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Saab 9-7X, 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, 2006 Saab 9-7X (376 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Saab 9-7X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2006 Saab 9-7X has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saab 9-7X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2006 Saab 9-7X | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 9-7X |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 4195 cc |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 376 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 101.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 83 L |
