1996 BMW 523 vs. 2004 Saab 9-7X
To start off, 2004 Saab 9-7X is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. In terms of performance, 2004 Saab 9-7X (272 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saab 9-7X should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523.
Because 2004 Saab 9-7X is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Saab 9-7X will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Saab 9-7X (372 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2004 Saab 9-7X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523. 2004 Saab 9-7X has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Saab 9-7X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2004 Saab 9-7X | |
| Make | BMW | Saab |
| Model | 523 | 9-7X |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4920 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2880 mm |
