1994 Saab 900 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Saab 900 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1994 Saab 900. (182 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1994 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 890 kg more than 1994 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 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 2011 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Saab 900. (263 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Saab 900. 2011 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1994 Saab 900 has manual transmission. 1994 Saab 900 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Saab 900 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Saab | BMW |
| Model | 900 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 2220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3071 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
