1988 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 05-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 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 05-Sep (256 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1988 BMW M3. (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 378 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 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, 2009 Saab 05-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 05-Sep (258 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2009 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | M3 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
