1980 Saab 900 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 32 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 870 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 2012 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Saab 900. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 446 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 900 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2968 mm |
