1986 Saab 9000 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1986 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1986 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 326 kg more than 1986 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Saab 9000 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 9000 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2497 mm |
