1980 Saab 900 vs. 2010 BMW 120
To start off, 2010 BMW 120 is newer by 30 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 120 weights approximately 345 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 2010 BMW 120 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 2010 BMW 120. 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, 2010 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2010 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 900 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
