1988 BMW 520 vs. 1985 Saab 900
To start off, 1988 BMW 520 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Saab 900 (155 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520.
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, 1985 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, 1985 Saab 900 (278 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm). This means 1985 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1985 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1985 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1985 Saab 900 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 520 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1985 |
| 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 | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2530 mm |
