1978 BMW 725 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1980 Saab 900 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900.
Because 1978 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1978 BMW 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 725 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
