1980 Saab 900 vs. 2013 BMW M5
To start off, 2013 BMW M5 is newer by 33 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 4,395 cc (10 cylinders), 2013 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW M5 (493 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 385 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW M5 weights approximately 640 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 2013 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 2013 BMW M5. 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, 2013 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2013 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 2013 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 900 | M5 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 4395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 519 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4863 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1846 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2889 mm |
