1996 BMW 520 vs. 2012 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2012 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Saab 03-Sep (220 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 64 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2012 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2012 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 520 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1560 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
