1978 BMW 730 vs. 2009 Saab 9-7X
To start off, 2009 Saab 9-7X is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Saab 9-7X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 9-7X (390 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1978 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 9-7X should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 9-7X weights approximately 64 kg more than 1978 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Saab 9-7X is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 730. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saab 9-7X will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Saab 9-7X (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 730. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 9-7X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 730. 2009 Saab 9-7X has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Saab 9-7X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 2009 Saab 9-7X | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 730 | 9-7X |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 390 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2880 mm |
