1979 Saab 900 vs. 2010 BMW X3
To start off, 2010 BMW X3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW X3 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 BMW X3 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, 2010 BMW X3 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Saab 900 | 2010 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 900 | X3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4569 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1676 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2797 mm |
