1988 BMW 520 vs. 1982 Saab 99
To start off, 1988 BMW 520 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1982 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1982 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1982 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 520 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 1988 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Saab 99, 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, 1988 BMW 520 (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1982 Saab 99 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 520 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
