1988 Saab 9000 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (227 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 402 kg more than 1988 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 BMW 3 Series 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 2013 BMW 3 Series. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000, 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 BMW 3 Series. (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 BMW 3 Series.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Saab 9000 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 9000 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7 :1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1333 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1395 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
