1972 BMW 520 vs. 1987 Saab 900
To start off, 1987 Saab 900 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Saab 900 (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1987 Saab 900.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Saab 900, 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, 1987 Saab 900 (273 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1987 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 1987 Saab 900 | |
Make | BMW | Saab |
Model | 520 | 900 |
Year Released | 1972 | 1987 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 273 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1285 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 63 L |