1995 BMW Z3 vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 1995 BMW Z3 is newer by 7 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW Z3 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (136 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1995 BMW Z3.
Because 1995 BMW Z3 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 1995 BMW Z3. 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, 1995 BMW Z3 (179 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW Z3 | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | Z3 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 54 L |
