1988 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (280 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 210 kg more than 1988 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Saab 03-Sep is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep will offer significantly more control. 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 (355 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2009 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 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 M3 | 2009 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M3 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
