1990 Saab 900 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Saab 900 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 256 more horse power than 1990 Saab 900. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1990 Saab 900. 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, 1990 Saab 900, 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 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Saab 900. (255 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Saab 900 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 900 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2761 mm |
