1975 BMW 520 vs. 1986 Saab 9000
To start off, 1986 Saab 9000 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Saab 9000 (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Saab 9000 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1975 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000, 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, both vehicles can yield 172 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 520 | 1986 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 520 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
