1988 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 44 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2610 mm |
