1982 BMW 323 vs. 1981 Saab 900
To start off, 1982 BMW 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Saab 900 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 BMW 323 (148 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Saab 900. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1982 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 BMW 323 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1981 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 BMW 323 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 1982 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1982 BMW 323 (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Saab 900. (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 BMW 323 | 1981 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 323 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2530 mm |
