1978 BMW 520 vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 1999 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (231 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1999 Saab 03-Sep.
Because 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Saab 03-Sep (357 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
Make | BMW | Saab |
Model | 520 | 03-Sep |
Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2290 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 231 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 357 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |