1980 BMW M5 vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 251 kg more than 1980 BMW M5.
Because 1980 BMW M5 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 1980 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1980 BMW M5 (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M5 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1642 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
