1988 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2005 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 17 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 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 240 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, 2005 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, 2005 Saab 03-Sep (264 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
