1989 Saab 9000 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1989 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Saab 9000 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 9000 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2290 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 250 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 | 1450 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2761 mm |
