1979 Saab 900 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 34 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 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (238 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 320 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 2013 BMW 3 Series 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 2013 BMW 3 Series. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (350 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900. 2013 BMW 3 Series has automatic transmission and 1979 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1979 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 BMW 3 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Saab 900 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
Make | Saab | BMW |
Model | 900 | 3 Series |
Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10:01 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4636 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2031 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1429 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2810 mm |