1983 BMW 525 vs. 1990 Saab 9000
To start off, 1990 Saab 9000 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Saab 9000 (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Saab 9000 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 525 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 1983 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Saab 9000, 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, 1990 Saab 9000 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1990 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 1990 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 525 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 219 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2670 mm |
