1980 Saab 900 vs. 2006 BMW 316
To start off, 2006 BMW 316 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 316 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1980 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 316 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 2006 BMW 316. 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, 2006 BMW 316 (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2006 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 900 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2730 mm |
