1972 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 36 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 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saab 03-Sep (207 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 275 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, 2008 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, 2008 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2008 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
