1988 BMW 524 vs. 2009 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1988 BMW 524. (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 524. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 219 kg more than 1988 BMW 524. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 524. (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 524. 2009 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 524 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 524 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2009 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 524 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
